There are several techniques for IBM i/AS400 application GUI modernization, each with varying levels of complexity and benefits. These include:

  • API integration: Exposes AS400 business logic via APIs to build custom frontends and integrate with modern apps, offering flexibility but requiring technical expertise.
  • Full application rewrite: Rebuilds the application with modern technology while retaining business logic, providing full control but at a higher cost and complexity.
  • Low-code/No-code platforms: Uses visual development tools for rapid modernization with minimal coding, making it ideal for quick updates but with limited complexity handling.
  • Refacing: Modernizes the interface by adding GUI elements like buttons and drop-downs while keeping the backend intact, improving usability without major disruption.
  • Screen scraping: Converts 5250 green screens into a graphical interface without changing the core code, offering a quick, low-cost solution but limited customization.
  • Web-enabling: Transforms AS400 applications into web-based interfaces, enabling remote access and modern user experience, but requires security and performance updates.