Large-Scale Application Modernization – Mainframe and COBOL to Java-Based Solution

Large-scale internal web application renovation that included a migration from a legacy mainframe system written in COBOL to a Java-based solution.

Case Study: In collaboration with an IT corporation and a Minnesota State company, Intertech worked on a large-scale internal web application renovation that included a migration from a legacy mainframe system written in COBOL to a Java-based solution. By using a vast array of technologies, Intertech’s team accomplished the goals set by the client, leaving them exceptionally pleased with the result. 

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Case-Study

Technology Used
Java
JUnit
jQuery
Google Web Toolkit
Spring Framework
Eclipse

 

Additional Services
Web Development
UI/UX

Project

Application Renovation – From Legacy Mainframe and COBOL to Java

 

Project Requirements

As a provider of benefits for the State of Minnesota employees, our client used an internal web application to automate business processes for retirement benefit counselors, auditors, and administrators. This application includes user interfaces and batch processes for preparing benefit estimates, annuitizing plan participants, processing refunds, and handling many other daily activities. The project’s goals included migrating off the mainframe (with realized cost savings), eliminating the use of COBOL, and streamlining processes to improve efficiencies. The clients also wanted the web application to improve internal controls, increase productivity by reducing or eliminating manual processes, and migrate as much functionality online as possible. 

Result

Strictly following the given timeline, Intertech partnered with the IT client to replace a legacy mainframe system written in COBOL with a Java-based solution using an iterative approach. Intertech’s consulting unit provided architectural guidance and development staff, comprised of two teams. Intertech personnel worked closely with the Minnesota State company’s business analysts and users to understand current processes and offer recommendations for increased efficiencies where it made sense. The outcome of Intertech’s collaboration produced:

 

  • Automation of manual processes
  • Workflow and audit tracking of previously ad-hoc processes
  • Reduced dependence on system admin staff by enabling users to perform more tasks
  • An internal staff very knowledgeable on the new system.

Overview

While working on this project, Intertech collaborated with business analysts and users to identify requirements, design user interfaces and workflows with Balsamiq Mockups. Our team implemented business logic in Java services using Spring and OpenJPA. Creating user interfaces was done using Spring MVC, Apache Tiles2, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and JQuery. Furthermore, Intertech provided unit test coverage for all delivered code with JUnit and Mockito and performed data modeling and class design with Dia and SQL Workbench. Throughout the rest of the process, Intertech managed to redesign the system’s user interface completely. They defined a service-oriented application architecture and took existing business rules from a legacy system to implement in a new system as applicable, eliminating redundant processes and automating others. The team used an iterative development and testing approach with defined milestones and implemented best practices. 

“You guys have been awesome to work with!”

Employer & Participant Services Supervisor of MN State Company

Intertech has been in business for nearly 30 years. Many of our projects are considered confidential by our clients. For this reason, and out of respect for our customer’s privacy, we do not mention companies by name regarding specific projects, with the clear understanding that the project outlined and presented is actual work Intertech and their consultants have completed successfully.

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"Working with Intertech allowed us to modernize the user interface of the equipment we produce."

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"Thanks to everybody for the efforts over the last 18 months!"

“It’s with mixed feelings that this day has arrived. I’m sad to see this collaborative effort come to an end; but I’m excited with what we have accomplished. Tom & Scott had a lot of patience with me through the process and were able to teach me a lot of good stuff. For me, one of the big benefits of the Intertech/[client] relationship was it helped me demonstrate the value of software to the company which led to my getting approval to hire two software folks. Even though this particular project/phase is at an end, I’m hoping we have the opportunity to work together again. Once again, Thanks to everybody for the efforts over the last 18 months.”

– Client Supervisor

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