#Japan #Hybrid Cloud #SCSK #Koto, Tokyo #IBM z17

Introduction

In an exciting development for businesses relying on mainframe technology, SCSK Corporation has announced its launch of the first IBM z17 hosting service in Japan. Scheduled to begin in December 2025, the MF+ Hosting Service leverages the latest mainframe from IBM as part of a strategy to assist clients in effectively transforming their mainframe infrastructure to meet modern demands.

The Need for Transformation

Many industries—including finance, public service, and manufacturing—depend on mainframes characterized by their high reliability and stability. However, these systems often contain legacy structures embedded with complex business logic, making comprehensive revamps challenging due to high costs and risks. As companies pursue digital transformation (DX) and incorporate AI solutions, the need to utilize existing mainframe assets while enhancing security is becoming increasingly important.

To address these demands, SCSK has partnered with IBM, focusing on a hybrid cloud platform that effortlessly combines on-premises deployments with cloud capabilities. This strategic partnership was formalized on November 28, 2024, aiming to resolve current challenges and extend SCSK’s MF+ service offerings.

Overview of MF+ Hosting Service (IBM z17)

The MF+ Hosting Service is a managed infrastructure service that offers clients access to the computing resources of IBM’s mainframe systems in a shared environment. It is designed to reduce infrastructure management burdens while providing a safe, flexible, and efficient IT framework. Notably, the introduction of the IBM z17 brings several enhancements, including:

Accelerated AI Utilization: Optimizing Decision-Making

Designed for the AI era, IBM z17 integrates advanced AI capabilities into hybrid cloud architectures. This optimization enables enhanced performance and data security for core systems that handle vital client information while facilitating better decision-making processes.

Promoting Modernization: Bridging Talent and Skill Gaps

The evolution of IBM z/OS means that development and operations on mainframes can now employ the same tools and processes as other platforms. With AI assistance, the development cycle can be expedited, leading to an improvement in application release frequencies and a maximization of the inherent value of core business data.

Comments from IBM

Representatives from IBM highlighted their commitment to advancing Japan's hybrid cloud platform capabilities in collaboration with SCSK. The MF+ Hosting Service is expected to deliver unparalleled stability and reliability while harnessing the transformative potential of AI to enhance operational efficiency.

Future Prospects

SCSK and IBM plan to continue expanding platform capabilities based on IBM's Hybrid by Design philosophy. This includes strengthening integration between MF+ and NebulaShift, allowing mainframe assets to align with cloud-native architectures. This synergy not only promotes gradual mainframe transformation but also aims to optimize IT foundations geared for future success, marrying reliability with enhanced security measures.

Conclusion

As SCSK advances its sustainability strategy in alignment with its vision of a prosperous future, the launch of the MF+ Hosting Service represents a significant step toward addressing the evolving demands of the IT landscape. By tackling the dual challenges of infrastructure management and embedding cutting-edge technologies like AI, SCSK is committed to fostering new business opportunities in a digital-oriented future.