System z specialty engines are specifically designed to make IBM's System z more attractive for the optimization of new workloads, while helping to significantly lower the life-cycle cost of running those workloads on a System z server. Specialty engines, as a core foundation for running new workloads, are estimated to account for 60% of IBM's mainframe revenue growth. Most IT organizations are divided over targeting System z as the platform of choice for new workload deployment. To understand reasons for short-listing System z as the target for new applications workloads — Linux, Java, and next generation DBMS processing — you need to understand the technology benefit offered by the unique aspect of each specialty engine and its economic impact in better optimizing System z CPU cycles, and whether the business case for specialty engines secures System z a spot on your strategic systems shortlist.