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IBM Unveils watsonx Generative AI Capabilities to Accelerate Mainframe Application Modernization

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IBM is designing this product to refactor, transform, and validate COBOL code to help speed time-to-value and augment skills for critical application modernization on IBM ZThe product will be enabled by a 20 billion parameter large language model (LLM) for code

ARMONK, N.Y., Aug. 22, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced watsonx Code Assistant for Z, a new generative AI-assisted product that will help enable faster translation of COBOL to Java on IBM Z and enhances developer productivity on the platform. This product will be generally available in Q4 2023, and is being designed to help accelerate COBOL application modernization. Watsonx Code Assistant for Z will preview during TechXchange, IBM’s premier technical learning event in Las Vegas, Sept 11-13.

Watsonx Code Assistant for Z is a new addition to the watsonx Code Assistant product family, along with IBM watsonx Code Assistant for Red Hat Ansible Lightspeed, scheduled for release later this year. These solutions will be powered by IBM’s watsonx.ai code model, which will have knowledge of 115 coding languages1 having learned from 1.5 trillion tokens.2 At 20 billion parameters, it is on target to become one of the largest generative AI foundation models for code automation.3 The watsonx Code Assistant product portfolio will extend over time to address other programming languages, to improve time to value for modernization and address growing skills challenges for developers.

Watsonx Code Assistant for Z is being designed to assist businesses in leveraging generative AI and automated tooling to accelerate their mainframe application modernization – all with the goal of preserving the performance, security and resiliency capabilities of IBM Z.

The COBOL data processing language supports many vital business and operational processes at organizations globally. At scale, using watsonx Code Assistant for Z in comparison to other approaches could make it easier for developers to selectively and incrementally transform COBOL business services into well architected high-quality Java code – with estimated billions of lines of COBOL code as potential candidates for targeted modernization over time. Generative AI can help developers to more quickly assess, update, validate and test the right code, allowing them to more efficiently modernize large applications and focus on higher impact tasks.

IBM is designing these capabilities to provide tooling for each step of the modernization journey. The solution is expected to include IBM’s Application Discovery and Delivery Intelligence (ADDI) inventory and analysis tool. Following ADDI, key steps on the journey include refactoring business services in COBOL, transforming COBOL code to Java code with an optimized design, and validating the resulting outcome, including using automated testing capabilities. Potential benefits for clients include:

Accelerating code development and increasing developer productivity throughout the application modernization lifecycleManaging total cost, complexity, and risk of application modernization initiatives, including translation and optimization of code in-place on IBM ZExpanding access to a broader pool of IT skills and accelerating developer onboardingAchieving high quality, easy to maintain code through model customization and the application of best practices

“Our collaboration with IBM is an important element in our drive to leverage generative AI interfaces to challenge legacy approaches with material productivity gains, and reinvent our Capital Markets solutions,” said Roger Burkhardt, CTO, Capital Markets and AI, Broadridge Financial. “We have had excellent client response to our generative AI investments and we are intrigued by the opportunity to further our efforts by leveraging IBM watsonx Code Assistant for Z to address a broader range of platforms.”

AI-assisted mainframe application modernization is an imperative

According to new research from the IBM Institute for Business Value, organizations are 12x more likely to leverage existing mainframe assets rather than rebuild their application estates from scratch in the next two years. At the same time, however, the study shows that the number one challenge for those same organizations is a lack of resources and skills.

“By bringing generative AI capabilities through watsonx to new use cases, we plan to drive real progress for our clients,” said Kareem Yusuf, PhD, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Growth, IBM Software. “IBM is engineering watsonx Code Assistant for Z to take a targeted and optimized approach. It’s built to rapidly and accurately convert code optimized for IBM Z, accelerate time to market and broaden the skills pool. This can help enhance applications and add new capabilities while preserving the performance, resiliency, and security inherent in IBM Z.”

There are many application modernization approaches available today. Some options include rewriting all application code in Java, or migrating everything to public cloud, which may sacrifice capabilities that are core to the IBM Z value proposition while failing to deliver on expected cost reduction. Tools that convert COBOL applications to Java syntax can produce code that is hard to maintain and can be unrecognizable to a Java developer. Generative AI is promising, but current AI-assisted partial re-write technology lacks COBOL support and doesn’t optimize the resulting Java code for the given task.

The resulting Java code from watsonx Code Assistant for Z will be object-oriented. IBM is designing this solution to be optimized to interoperate with the rest of the COBOL application, with CICS, IMS, DB2, and other z/OS runtimes. Java on Z is designed to be performance-optimized versus a compared x86 platform.4

Building on a foundation of governance and innovation

According to a 2023 Gartner® report (For Gartner Subscribers only), “by 2028, the combination of humans and AI assistants working in tandem could reduce the time to complete coding tasks by 30%.” The report further states that “the use of AI code generation tools is not replacing the quality assurance (QA) processes and security controls that are needed by developers for robust and secure product development, as well as for mitigation of inherited risks from using generative methods for code.”5

Protecting sensitive data and customer intellectual property are critical when it comes to implementing generative AI. IBM for decades has followed core principles, grounded in commitments to Trust and Transparency. With this principle-based approach, the watsonx platform aims to enable enterprises to leverage their own trusted data and IP to build tailored AI solutions that are scalable across operations.

Additionally, IBM Consulting brings deep domain expertise in IBM Z application modernization with a focus on guiding clients that leverage the platform across key industries such as banking, insurance, healthcare and government. These dedicated consultants can help clients identify the right application areas to modernize in order to optimize the potential benefits of watsonx Code Assistant for Z.  

For more information about AI-assisted mainframe application modernization, and to get started with IBM’s optimized, targeted approach, please visit our website here and join us at TechXchange. Register today for our watsonx Code Assistant for Z webinar on Sept. 21 at 11 am ET here and learn how IBM is bringing Gen AI to mainframe application modernization. You can also schedule a live demo with our team here.

IBM’s plans, directions, and intentions may change or be withdrawn at any time at IBM’s discretion without notice. Information about potential future products and improvements is provided to give a general idea of IBM’s goals and objectives and should not be used in making a purchase decision. IBM is not obligated to provide any material, code, or functionality based on this information.

5 Gartner, Emerging Tech: Generative AI Code Assistants Are Becoming Essential to Developer Experience, By Radu Miclaus, Arun Chandrasekaran, Ray Valdes, Mark Driver, Eric Goodness, Published 11 May 2023

GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

About IBM
IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. More than 4,000 government and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s legendary commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service.

Media Contact:
Ashley Peterson
ashley.peterson@ibm.com 

1 List of coding languages used in the model can be found here: https://github.ibm.com/ai-models-architectures/Granite-Megatron-LM/blob/starcoder-experiments/sampling_proportions/starcoderdata-90/proportions.txt
2 Number based on proprietary internal data.
3 Previous largest was community model StarCoder at 15B https://www.marktechpost.com/2023/05/07/meet-starcoder-the-biggest-open-source-large-language-models-for-code/
4 For example, as noted during the announcement of IBM z16, using IBM Semeru Runtime Certified Edition 11, run Business Rules Processing with IBM Operational Decision Manager 8.11.00 on Linux on IBM z16 for up to 70% higher throughput per core     versus running the same application on a compared x86 server. DISCLAIMER: Performance results are based on the average of measurements done using IBM Operational Decision Manager (ODM) 8.11.0 with IBM Java 8.0.7.10 and IBM Semeru Runtime Certified Edition 11.0.15.0 on IBM z16 and on a compared x86 server. Two different configurations were tested: executing 2005 rules (from a ruleset containing 14560 rules), and executing 80 rules (from a ruleset containing 300 rules). IBM z16 configuration: Linux on IBM Z LPAR with Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.5 (Ootpa) and 4 IFLs (SMT). x86 server configuration: Red Hat Enterprise Linux release 8.6 (Ootpa) and 4 SMT-2 cores (Cascade Lake Intel(R) Xeon(R) Gold 6226R CPU @ 2.90GHz). Results may vary.

 

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Groundbreaking Study Explores THC Beverages as a Wellness Alternative to Alcohol

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PHILADELPHIA, April 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MoreBetter, a leader in Real-World-Data collection and research, has announced a pioneering study aimed at understanding the impact of THC-infused beverages on alcohol consumption, mood, and overall quality of life. This innovative effort comes at a critical time, as alcohol sales are experiencing a decline, and as consumers are increasingly curious about trying “better-for-you” alcohol alternatives.

The observational research study is currently recruiting up to 2,000 qualified participants who will provide daily feedback over a three week period on their infused beverage and alcohol consumption patterns, as well as self-assessments on their overall quality of life. The study is sponsored by multiple leading beverage brands, who are collectively supplying participants with free infused beverage products to use throughout the course of the study.

“By collecting consumer-reported outcomes from thousands of consumers, over a multi-week basis, we provide brands and industry advocates with the Real World Data they need to understand how infused beverages are impacting consumers’ quality of life,” says MoreBetter COO, Tyler Dautrich.

“Our mission has always been to provide a healthier, more mindful way to enjoy social moments, and we believe this study will help us better understand and validate the positive impact of our product,” said Aaron Nosbisch, Founder and CEO at BRĒZ, a sponsor of the study.

Timely Research Supported by Industry Leaders

In January of 2025, the outgoing Surgeon General released the New Advisory Link Between Alcohol and Cancer Risk which outlined how alcohol is the third leading preventable cause of cancer, despite less than half of Americans recognising it as a risk factor for cancer. As consumers begin to seek alcohol alternatives, THC-Infused Beverage brands want to gain insight into how consumers are using their products and what perceived lifestyle benefits or wellness outcomes might result after consumption.

“The cannabis plant should be better researched, and we are hopeful that this is just the first step in learning how these products can improve people’s lives as acceptance, access, and consumption of infused beverages expands across the US,” said Adam Terry, CEO of Cantrip, also a sponsor of the study.

“This pioneering study reflects our commitment at Iconic Tonics to reshape the future of adult beverages—delivering functional, flavorful, and elevated alternatives that meet the moment. As more consumers explore mindful options, real-world data like this will be essential in understanding how THC-infused beverages are enhancing quality of life and transforming social rituals. Our partnership with MoreBetter isn’t just about validating our brands—it’s about leading a cultural shift with integrity, innovation, and style,” said Evan Eneman, CEO and co-founder of Iconic Tonics, alongside entertainment icon and entrepreneur Snoop Dogg.

While canned THC-Infused seltzers are the primary form factor being studied, MoreBetter will also investigate 750ml bottles used as mixers, dry powder mixes, and 1.5-2 oz “shots” in an effort to study how various doses and form factors impact consumer’s perceived experiences.

“Participating in this study allows us to stay at the forefront of innovation while helping to shape standards that prioritize safety, quality, and consumer education,” said Justin Tidwell, CEO of Nowadays, about sponsoring the study.

Join the Infused Beverage Study

Consumers over the age of twenty-one are invited to join the study and share their day-to-day experiences with using infused beverages. Individuals can check if they’re eligible for the study at this website: mystudi.es/bevstudy.

About MoreBetter

MoreBetter is a software and contract research organization (CRO) specializing in Real World Data collection on the use and performance of functional ingredients and consumer wellness products. Clients include dietary supplement manufacturers, federal and state government agencies, and global academic researchers. MoreBetter’s mission is to empower consumers to make data-informed decisions in pursuit of better personal health and wellness. Learn more at www.morebetter.ltd.

Contact Information

Tyler Dautrich
COO
MoreBetter
610-406-7505
tyler@morebetter.ltd
www.morebetter.ltd

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Six Red Marbles and T.I.B. Editorial Inc. Announce Strategic Partnership to Expand Spanish-Language Educational Offerings

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Six Red Marbles and T.I.B. Editorial Inc. have partnered to provide high-quality Spanish-language and bilingual K–12 educational materials. This collaboration expands SRM’s ability to offer full-service, multilingual solutions—supporting publishers, school districts, and dual-language programs with culturally responsive, research-backed content.

BOSTON, April 10, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Six Red Marbles (SRM), a leader in innovative educational content and curriculum development, has partnered with T.I.B. Editorial Inc., a premier provider of Spanish-language editorial services, to enhance bilingual and dual-language educational materials for the K-12 market.

“Together, we’re bringing decades of expertise in Spanish-language publishing and bilingual education to ensure students receive engaging, high-quality literature tailored specifically for educational purposes and learning materials that support academic success in both English and Spanish.”

This partnership enables SRM to expand its service offerings by leveraging T.I.B. Editorial’s expertise in Spanish-language content development, bilingual education, and transadaptation. Through this collaboration, SRM and T.I.B. Editorial will provide high-quality Spanish-language instructional materials, including decodable readers, structured literacy programs, culturally responsive curriculum, multimedia learning tools, and much more.

This partnership also expands SRM’s ability to offer even more full-service solutions, ensuring that clients can execute large-scale, multilingual projects with a single, trusted partner. SRM’s proven expertise in full-service educational development, spanning instructional design, content creation, and digital learning solutions combined with T.I.B. Editorial’s deep knowledge of Spanish-language publishing and bilingual education, allows both organizations to deliver comprehensive learning experiences at scale.

“We’re thrilled to partner with T.I.B. Editorial and Andrés Pi Andreu, an award-winning bilingual author and curriculum expert,” said Bill Scroggie, EVP of Learning Solutions at Six Red Marbles. “This collaboration allows us to offer our clients an even broader range of services. With T.I.B.’s exceptional Spanish-language capabilities, SRM can now be a true one-stop shop for multilingual program development.”

The collaboration between SRM and T.I.B. Editorial aims to address the increasing demand for bilingual and Spanish-language education by offering:

Bilingual & Dual-Language Curriculum Development: Spanish-language materials aligned with best practices in cross-linguistic transfer, Science of Reading, and multimodal literacy.Decodable Readers & Structured Literacy Materials: Research-based resources designed to support Spanish-speaking and bilingual learners.Culturally Responsive Content & Heritage Spanish Programs: Authentic, engaging materials that reflect Latin and Hispanic cultures and diverse linguistic experiences.Spanish Translations & Transadaptations: Pedagogical adaptation of English materials into Spanish to ensure linguistic and cultural accuracy.Innovative Digital & Multimedia Learning Tools: Spanish-language e-learning solutions, interactive content, and bilingual voiceover services.

“This collaboration bridges a crucial gap in K–12 bilingual education,” said Andrés Pi Andreu, Founder of T.I.B. Editorial Inc. “Together, we’re bringing decades of expertise in Spanish-language publishing and bilingual education to ensure students receive engaging, high-quality literature tailored specifically for educational purposes and learning materials that support academic success in both English and Spanish.”

With this partnership, SRM and T.I.B. Editorial will offer publishers and educational institutions a full suite of bilingual content solutions, allowing them to tap into the rapidly growing Spanish-language education market. The collaboration will support dual-language programs, heritage Spanish speakers, and districts seeking culturally relevant instructional materials.

About Six Red Marbles

Six Red Marbles is a leading provider of innovative learning solutions, offering curriculum development, instructional design, and educational technology services to publishers, school districts, higher education institutions, and corporate learning programs. With a focus on research-backed pedagogy and engaging content, SRM delivers impactful learning experiences that meet the evolving needs of learners worldwide. Learn more at: https://www.sixredmarbles.com/

About T.I.B. Editorial Inc.

T.I.B. Editorial Inc. specializes in editorial services for the K-12 market, with expertise in Spanish-language content development, bilingual education, and transadaptation. Headquartered in Miami, T.I.B. Editorial provides publishers with high-quality Spanish-language instructional materials, decodable readers, heritage Spanish programs, and multimedia learning tools that align with state and district education standards.

For more information about the partnership, please contact:

Robin Zaccardo, Chief Experience Officer

Six Red Marbles

contact@sixredmarbles.com

Media Contact

Robin Zaccardo, Six Red Marbles, 1 8575889000, contact@sixredmarbles.com, https://sixredmarbles.com 

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Smith Consulting Group Celebrates Fifteen Years In Business

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Smith Consulting Group Celebrates Fifteen Years Of Helping Banks and Credit Unions

LAKE MARY, Fla., April 10, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Smith Consulting Group is celebrating fifteen years of helping banks and credit unions of all shapes and sizes overcome challenges and achieve success. Starting with just three people, Smith Consulting Group (“SCG”) has grown to a team of over seventy people consisting of the some of the most respected experts in the fintech and financial services industry.

“Technological advances, consumer demands, regulatory compliance, and other challenges require expertise that is difficult for banks and credit unions to manage internally in a cost and time effective manner. SCG continues to grow our team to meet these demands for our clients.” – Darren Smith, CEO

“It’s been an incredible journey for both SCG and our clients,” said Darren Smith, Founder and CEO of Smith Consulting Group. “The environment that banks and credit unions operate in has changed significantly over the last fifteen years, and it continues to change on an almost daily basis. Technological advances, evolving consumer demands and expectations, regulatory compliance, and other challenges require the addition of new areas of expertise that are almost impossible for banks and credit unions to manage internally in a cost and time effective manner. That is why SCG continues to grow our team to meet these demands for our clients.”

“I have known Darren for many years, including the time we spent together at Fiserv, and it has been inspiring to watch him build SCG and use his unique ability to stay ahead of the curve to the advantage of SCG’s clients,” said John Macaluso, Chief Operating Officer for Smith Consulting Group. “Under Darren’s leadership, SCG has assembled an unsurpassed team of experts that encompass everything banks and credit unions need to meet the demands of today’s banking environment. This team and their skills continue to adjust to make sure that whatever challenges a bank or credit union faces SCG can help them overcome them. Whatever comes next SCG will be ready for it, and so will our clients.”

About Smith Consulting Group: Our team of banking and credit union professionals have decades of experience dealing with all aspects of bank and credit union operations. In addition to our extensive work with banking software system conversions and implementations, our team also has a broad range of experience working with the various systems required in your bank’s operations including Core, Teller, Customer Service and Call Center Platforms, ECM Systems, Document Development and Delivery Systems, Online and Mobile Banking, and various other interfaces.

To learn more about Smith Consulting Group visit www.smithconsultinggrp.com, email them at info@smithconsultinggrp.com, or call 866-4-SmithGrp.

Media Contact

Darren Smith, Smith Consulting Group, 1 (321) 263-6955, darrensmith@smithconsultinggrp.com, smithconsultinggrp.com

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