Q&A: Consolidating Linux Workloads On System Z

Transitioning Linux workloads to run on a System Z footprint will first require your chief information officer's (CIO) sponsorship — as any step away from convention would entail. Take the shortcut on this assignment by asking him three simple questions: 1) Is there a long-term commitment to the mainframe as a strategic systems platform? 2) Would you choose "good enough" technology over best-of-breed technology if the former resulted in dramatic life-cycle cost savings? 3) Do you believe that Linux and open source software in general has evolved to the point where you are comfortable running mission-critical apps on the platform? If your CIO answers "yes" to these questions, then you are on your way. Using the mainframe as a consolidation platform of choice for Linux workloads may seem like you're stepping out on a ledge — but don't worry, many others have successfully gone before you. Don't relax yet, though. Making the Linux consolidation case on IBM's mainframe will require lots of upfront spade work including due diligence on the business case, differentiating the technology benefits, and — most importantly — doing the math.