Corporate

4 Common SAP Business One eCommerce Integration Scenarios

Organisations that sell their products or services online commonly use powerful eCommerce web stores such as Magento, Shopify, BigCommerce and Amazon Seller Central.

Unfortunately, for many businesses, it still requires employees to manually extract their data and re-key that information into their business software. Information is also manually extracted from business software, for example, SAP Business One and is re-keyed into a carefully chosen eCommerce web store.

The downsides of manual bi-directional data processing are:

• Time-consuming
• Prone to errors
• Costly

eCommerce professionals are now turning to solutions which can automate the flow of information between their webshop and business software.

So, what are the 4 most common eCommerce integration scenarios?

• Automatic insertion of webshop orders into an accounting solution
• Automatic transfer of orders status and current stock levels and/or images from accounting systems to web store
• Automatic placement of an order with a selected courier service(s)
• Automatic synchronisation of customer information between an eCommerce application and a CRM system

Organisations that are automating the common scenarios are seeing the eradication of repetitive data entry and associated human errors, a significant decrease in dispatch times and a reduction in operational costs.

Automating the synchronisation of information between business systems and an eCommerce application can be an affordable and quick process by utilising drag-and-drop integration tools such as Codeless Platforms’ BPA Platform (business process automation) solution.

What eCommerce applications can BPA Platform integrate?

• Magento integration
• Shopify integration
• PrestaShop integration
• BigCommerce integration
• Amazon Seller Central integration / Amazon FBA Automation
• eBay integration
• PIM eCommerce integration
  

For more information on how BPA Platform can be used to automate the flow of information between your business systems and applications to streamline your business processes, contact us to arrange a demonstration.

KFA Connect are Codeless Platforms Partners – authorised to sell BPA Platform and have in-depth knowledge of developing integration and process automation using the solution.

Integrating eCommerce with IBM i

It can be easy to understate the transformative effect that the Internet has made to the world, there have been few areas of our lives that have not been changed fundamentally by our ability to connect with billions of people.  And with those connections, come opportunities for business, because billions of people means billions of potential customers.

Electronic or ‘e’ commerce has enabled businesses to make the computer, and latterly the phone in your pocket their shop window giving them a storefront on every street in every town of the world.

When did it all start though?

You might be surprised to hear that eCommerce pre-dates the web, with the first tentative steps being made in 1972 between two US universities.  But Europe, and especially the UK broke early ground with the first B2B (Thompson Holidays UK in 1981) and B2C (Tesco Gateshead in 1984) systems, a full six years before Tim Berners Lee created the World Wide Web.  Once the web had become established in people’s consciousness though things took off with Amazon launching as an online bookseller in 1994 and eBay in 1995, things were never going to be the same.

How can I compete with giants like Amazon or eBay though?

Remember that Amazon launched as a bookseller, eBay as an auction site.  The rise of these corporations into the giants that they are today has in no small part been due to the way they have become marketplaces where other companies can list and sell their products.  This marketplace model is also behind China’s Alibaba/Ali-express and numerous other region-specific platforms.

What If we’d prefer to run our own site, is that possible?

Originally, this would have meant the development of a bespoke eCommerce site, however, it is now more likely that a platform would be used, for example, Magento, WooCommerce, or Shopify.  Part of the reason for this is cost, bespoke every time is expensive!  But a major factor is maintenance and security, using a platform gives access to security patches, fixes and improvements in performance.  And each platform has access to a host of plug-ins to enable additional functionality without expensive development.

Magento and WooCommerce sites are typically built and hosted by (or on behalf of) the company running the store offering a high level of customisation and the ability to develop and build functionality beyond the basic eCommerce functionality.  This might include B2B or B2C storefronts, customer-specific pricing and loyalty card schemes.

Shopify which launched in 2006 offers a complete SAAS offering where for a monthly charge, hosting, payment processing, order management, reporting, and more are provided in a simple-to-use portal.  There are numerous benefits not least a low price of entry, convenience, performance, and the ability to use the greater Shopify eco-system, however, it is important to note that the ability to customise and develop additional functionality is limited.

Can we connect our IBM i-based system to those marketplaces? What about our own site if we go that path?

Absolutely, the IBM i, also known as the AS/400 or iSeries is ideally suited to integration. Able to provide incredibly reliable uptime, whilst also boasting a design optimised for transaction processing, the IBM i makes an excellent cornerstone for an eCommerce stack. 

Customers expect speed, convenience, and consistency and it is no surprise that the eCommerce sites that succeed are those which deliver time and time again. 

Having a system that does not stop working is key to this.

How is this done though, where would we start?

Web services (aka. Application Programming Interface API.) enable systems to communicate in a reliable and efficient way.  Marketplaces and platforms will make the information available so that developers can build integrations to other systems. 

These are most likely SOAP, REST and GRAPHQL which given the ubiquity of those technologies gives a huge scope for integration.

The IBM i supports these technologies natively whether it be through its own APIs, using web services, or perhaps through database integration using JDBC or ODBC.

What would the typical process be?

Always start with a plan!

Define the scope of the integration project, including the specific data and functionalities that need to be integrated between your eCommerce platform and IBM i.

Depending on your eCommerce platform and IBM i system, you may need to develop a custom integration code to connect the two systems. This could involve developing APIs, web services, or database triggers to send and receive data between the systems. You may need to work with a skilled developer or team with expertise in both eCommerce platforms and IBM i.

Test, Test, Test

There is an expectation that an eCommerce site works and works every time.  Once the integration code is developed, thoroughly test the integration to ensure that data is flowing correctly between the eCommerce platform and IBM i.

Implement Monitoring and Maintenance

Set up monitoring and maintenance processes to ensure that the integration continues to work correctly over time. Monitor for errors, performance issues, and security vulnerabilities, and apply necessary updates or fixes as needed.

Ensure that the integration is secure by implementing appropriate authentication, authorisation, and encryption mechanisms to protect sensitive data exchanged between the eCommerce platform and IBM i.

Document the integration process, including the integration code, configurations, and any customisations made to the eCommerce platform or IBM i system. This documentation will be valuable for troubleshooting, maintenance, and future enhancements.

Strength in partnership

Integrating eCommerce with IBM i requires technical expertise and understanding of both the eCommerce platform and IBM i system.

It’s recommended to work with experienced developers or consult with experts in eCommerce and IBM i integration to ensure a successful integration.

At KFA we have extensive knowledge of integrating eCommerce with IBM i. For more information on how we can help your business, get in touch with our team today.

Joe Vavasour

KFA Connect – IT Manager

17th April 2023

Want to know more? Get in touch with our team today.

Preserving the Past, Empowering the Future.

If you are a developer or an IT professional working with AS400 applications, you know how important documentation is for the smooth operation and maintenance of your system. AS400 or iSeries, now known as IBM i, is a robust and reliable platform for running business applications.

However, like any other software system, it requires proper documentation to ensure its sustainability and effectiveness.

In this blog post, we will delve into the significance of documenting your AS400 application and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to do it effectively.

Why Does Documenting Your AS400 Application Matter?

Documentation is an integral part of software development and maintenance processes. It serves as a reference guide for developers, IT administrators, and other stakeholders involved in managing and maintaining the AS400 application.

Here are some key reasons why documenting your IBM i application is crucial:

Knowledge Transfer

Documenting your AS400 application allows you to transfer knowledge about the system to other team members. It ensures that important information about the system, such as system architecture, data structures, program flow, and business rules, is preserved and shared with others.

This helps in reducing dependency on specific individuals and ensures that the system can be effectively managed and maintained by multiple team members.

System Understanding

Documentation helps in understanding the AS400 application thoroughly. It provides a clear overview of the system’s functionality, processes, and components, making it easier to troubleshoot issues, enhance or modify the system, and optimise its performance.

It also helps in identifying dependencies and relationships among various components of the application, which is crucial for effective system management.

Compliance and Audits

Many industries have strict compliance requirements, such as HIPAA, GDPR, and SOX, which necessitate proper documentation of software systems.

Documentation helps in ensuring that your AS400 application complies with these regulations and enables smooth audits by providing evidence of compliance.

Troubleshooting and Issue Resolution

When issues arise in your AS400 application, documentation can be a valuable resource for troubleshooting and resolving problems.

It provides insights into the system’s inner workings, allowing support teams to quickly identify the root cause of an issue and implement a solution. This helps by minimising downtime and ensuring that the system is up and running efficiently.

System Maintenance

AS400 applications require periodic maintenance activities, such as upgrades, patches, and fixes.

Proper documentation streamlines these activities by providing instructions and guidelines for performing maintenance tasks. It ensures that these activities are carried out smoothly and effectively, without disrupting the system’s stability and performance.

System Migration

When/if you eventually decide to migrate your AS400 application to another system, your application documentation will make the migration process considerably quicker and simpler and will help to ensure data and functionality are correctly scoped when choosing the new system.

Now that we understand the significance of documenting your AS400 application, let’s delve into how you can effectively document your system.

System Overview

Begin by providing a high-level overview of your AS400 application. This should include information about the system’s purpose, scope, and key components. Describe the system architecture, including hardware, software, and network configurations, along with any integration points with other systems.

Business Rules

Document the business rules that govern the AS400 application. This includes rules related to data validation, data processing, error handling, and business logic. Clearly define each rule, its purpose, and how and where it is implemented in the system.

Data Structures

Document the data structures used in your AS400 application, such as files, tables, and databases. Include information about data types, field lengths, and relationships among different data structures. Provide data flow diagrams, entity-relationship diagrams, and a data dictionary, if applicable.

Program Documentation

Document the programs or modules that comprise your AS400 application. This includes program names, descriptions, and program flow. Describe the input and output parameters, along with their meanings and usage.

At KFA, we fully understand the importance of documenting your applications. With our experience of the AS400 and its database, an ability to read all AS400 code and understand business processes, we are extremely proficient in the documenting of AS400 applications.

Finley Austin

KFA Connect – Marketing Assistant

14th April 2023

Want to know more? Get in touch with our team today.

Highly Valued and Hard to Replace.

In the world of information technology, there are various programming languages and platforms that are widely used for different purposes.  

One such platform is IBM i, formerly known as AS/400, which is a powerful and reliable system for business computing.  

IBM i developers are known for their expertise in this unique platform, and their skills are highly valued in the industry. However, when it comes to salaries, there are several factors to consider.

IBM i developers are known for their deep understanding of the IBM i operating system, RPG (Report Program Generator) programming language, and other related technologies. They are responsible for developing, maintaining, and enhancing applications that run on the IBM i platform, including business applications, databases, and web services.  

IBM i developers are also skilled in other programming languages such as COBOL, CL (Control Language), SQL (Structured Query Language) and Java which are commonly used in IBM i development. 

Unlike many systems where developers write code and the database is managed by a database administrator, IBM i developers tend to encompass a wide range of skills needing a deep understanding of DB2, object security and the IBM i operating system in addition to their dev skills.  

One of the reasons why IBM i developers are highly valued in the industry is because of the scarcity of talent. IBM i is a specialised platform, and finding skilled developers who are proficient in RPG and other related technologies can be challenging.

As a result, IBM i developers are often considered to be hard to replace, and their expertise is in high demand. 

So what should you expect to be paying for an IBM i developer?  

You will not be employing an IBM i developer straight from school, college or university in the same way you may find an individual with experience in HTML, python or some Microsoft languages. This means you will be employing someone with experience gained on the IBM i in a commercial setting within another company.

Experience

You are unlikely to find developers with just a few years of experience as the majority have been working on the system for decades. The average salary of IBM i developers can vary depending on various factors, such as their level of experience, geographic location, and the size and type of employer.  

According to Glassdoor data, the typical IBM Software Developer’s salary is £40,944 per year. Software Developer salaries at IBM can range from £18,000 – £87,073 per year. This estimate is based upon 127 IBM Software Developer salary report(s) provided by employees or estimated based on statistical methods. However, it’s important to note that these figures are approximate and will vary based on specific circumstances. 

Experience plays a crucial role in determining the salary of an IBM i developer. As with any profession, more experienced developers tend to earn higher salaries compared to those with less experience. IBM i developers who have a solid track record of working on complex projects, have specialised skills such as system administration or performance tuning or have obtained relevant certifications, may command higher salaries due to their expertise. 

Location

Geographic location is another factor that can impact the average salary of an IBM i developer. Salaries can vary significantly depending on the cost of living and demand for IBM i skills in a particular region. For example, cities with a high demand for IT professionals and a higher cost of living, such as London, may have higher average salaries for IBM i developers compared to smaller cities or towns. 

Size & Type of Employer

The size and type of employer can also affect the average salary of an IBM i developer. Large corporations or organisations with complex IBM i environments may offer higher salaries to attract top talent. Similarly, employers in industries that heavily rely on IBM i for their business operations, such as manufacturing or finance, may also offer competitive salaries to IBM i developers. 

In addition to the factors mentioned above, other factors that can impact the average salary of IBM i developers include the demand for IBM i skills in the job market, the level of competition among employers for skilled IBM i developers, and the overall economic conditions. 

Why is There a Shortage of IBM i Developers?

The shortage of IBM i developers in the UK is a challenge that has been observed in recent years.  However, due to various factors, including an ageing workforce, limited awareness among newer generations of developers, and a shift towards other platforms and technologies, the availability of skilled IBM i developers in the UK has become limited. This has led to a fluctuation in salary standards in this sector based on the demand.  

IR35, the UK tax legislation, designed to determine the employment status of contractors and freelancers, particularly those who provide their services through an intermediary, such as a limited company may also have had an impact on the number of software development contractors and the related salary range.  

In conclusion, IBM i developers are highly valued in the IT industry due to their specialised skills and expertise in a unique platform. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of the average salary of IBM i developers, it’s clear that their skills are in high demand and their contributions to the IT industry are highly valued and hard to replace. 

Richard Austin

KFA Connect – Director

12th April 2023

For more information on how we can improve your business? Get in touch with our team today.

Stress Awareness Month – April 2023 

April marks the start of National Stress Awareness Month in the UK, and it’s an important time to focus on the impact of stress on our daily lives.

The past few years have been particularly challenging, and it’s essential to raise awareness of the importance of managing stress and prioritising mental health.

Stress Awareness Month has been held every April since 1992 to raise awareness of the causes and cures for our modern-day stress epidemic. It is the time when we have an opportunity for an open conversation on the impact of stress. Dedicated time to removing the guilt, shame, and stigma around mental health. To talk about stress, and its effects and open up about our mental and emotional state with friends, families, colleagues, and professionals.

‘Fight or Flight?’

Under stress, our body thinks it is under attack and switches to ‘fight or flight’ mode, which releases hormones, such as adrenaline, norepinephrine and cortisol to prepare the body for physical action.

This can have a reaction on your muscles and bodily functions, such as digestion.

The fight or flight mode is helpful to manage dangerous situations but can also affect our brain function because when blood is only flowing to important muscles needed to react to the situation, the brain function is minimised.

The ‘Fight’ mode is triggered by our survival instinct – to warn off predators but can also negatively affect relationships and ruin reputations if used in unnecessary situations.

‘Flight’, by contrast, is also a survival instinct – removing yourself from the situation or away from the person causing the stress. This can save your life but can also leave you not actually facing an ongoing issue that causes the stress that isn’t going away.  

Some, when stressed, will lock the energy into the nervous system and simply “freeze”. This is often highlighted by holding your breath or by shallow breathing.

Whatever your reaction, stress can have a significant impact on our physical and mental health, affecting everything from our immune system to our relationships with others. It’s something that everyone experiences at one point or another, but it’s essential to understand the different types of stress and how to manage them effectively.

Acute & Chronic Stress

Acute Stress

One type of stress is acute stress, which is short-term and can be caused by specific events or situations. This could include a work deadline, an important exam, or a family emergency. Acute stress is a natural response to a challenging situation, and in some cases, it can even be beneficial, helping us to stay focused and motivated.

Chronic Stress

Chronic Stress is a more prolonged and ongoing type of stress that can be caused by factors such as financial worries, a demanding job, or relationship issues. Chronic stress can have a significant impact on our mental and physical health, contributing to conditions such as anxiety, depression, and high blood pressure.

What Can I do To Prevent or Ease Stress?

During National Stress Awareness Month, you could try focusing on effective stress management techniques.

This might include practising mindfulness and meditation, engaging in regular exercise, and taking time for hobbies and relaxation.

Simple changes such as eating for well-being, not being a slave to Tech, learning to say No, practising deep breathing and staying hydrated can also be really effective.

Prioritising good sleep habits can make a difference, as poor sleep can significantly impact our stress levels.

What Employers Can Do

Employers have a crucial role to play in stress management, and workplaces should prioritise creating a positive and supportive environment for their employees.

This could include offering mental health resources and support, providing opportunities for regular breaks and flexible working arrangements, and promoting a healthy work-life balance.

By prioritising our mental health and taking proactive steps to manage stress, we can improve our overall well-being and lead happier and healthier lives.

Nicki Smith

KFA Connect – Sales & Marketing Manager

5th April 2023

Useful Links

The Stress Management Society have a useful ‘Stress Quiz’ on their website for individuals which, following a series of questions offers a score and personalised report with recommendations.

Want to know more? Get in touch with our team today.

Lawrence Railton – Senior i-Series Developer

Starting Out…

I got into IT to enable me to move to Australia.

At 20 I went to Oz on a working holiday visa, when I returned to the UK I wanted to get back as soon as possible. Looking at the quickest way to do this I hit on the idea of programming.

It was 1989 and I signed up for a 16-week government-sponsored RPG training course, it came with a free weekly travel card! This led to my first job as a trainee programmer with the Salvation Army and the rest you might say is history.

Around that time the paper, for it was a physical paper, Computer Weekly would often have articles declaring that the AS400 that I had so recently begun working on would be no more by the end of the year. Well, here I am still writing RPG code on the great-grandson of the AS400, the IBM i.

“So it goes” (Vonnegut, 1969)

The IT Career with Travel

From my trainee job, I was headhunted by a city commodity broker, those were the days!

I then met a wonderful New Zealander whom I followed back to the South Pacific. New Zealand, being like Australia but better.

I got a job with an IT Consultancy in Wellington, where I worked on the NZ Lotteries account. After 3 years, we headed off to travel in South America for 9 months which was an amazing experience.

From there to London for 18 months, working for Superdrug on a stock replenishment system and then back to NZ via India, this time to Auckland where I worked for IBM. At this time, I lived on Waiheke Island, a 30-minute ferry ride from the city, on a good day you might see dolphins on the way to work.

I came back to the UK in 1997 and still working for IBM i moved to Brighton and began working on the Cable and Wireless account. I met my wife around this time, she already had two children and we had a further two, then moved to West Wales to get out of the rat race. I continued working for IBM remotely, and we also built an “eco-house”.

Starting at KFA

In 2007 I started working for KFA, at first commuting and then working from home, a real pioneer in the homeworking world! KFA have kept me busy over that time, giving me work as and when required. I now work for them three days a week which gives me time for my other career.

In 2005 I qualified as a counsellor and I have worked in schools, universities, and in private practice. The two roles of IT and Therapy complement each other very well.

Work-Life Balance

In August last year (2022) my wife and I moved away from West Wales after 17 fantastic years and bought a Passive House in Norwich, pretty much the other side of the UK. We felt it was time for something new and some City living, so far so good!

I’m a big reader, love indie and foreign films and going to see live music. I cycle a lot and have a regular yoga practice, something I started in Wellington all those years ago. I never ended up in Australia, but our oldest daughter now lives in Wollongong, NSW with our granddaughter, so I have a good reason to visit.    

Want to know more? Get in touch with our team today.

Where is the Next Generation of IBM i Developers Coming From? 

IBM i, formerly known as AS/400, is an enterprise-grade platform that has been used by businesses for over 30 years. With its robust and reliable architecture, it has become the backbone of many businesses, in manufacturing, distribution, retail and finance sectors.

However, as the demand for modern technologies grows, there is a concern about where the next generation of IBM i developers will come from. 

Since the late 80’s…

Since the late 80s, the general consensus amongst most companies in the UK has been that the AS/400 is on its way out, and therefore investment in bringing younger developers onto the platform has not been high on priorities.  

Nonetheless, there were several companies including IBM offering training from scratch that included the then S/38 and AS/400 operating system and RPG programming. In the UK it is now very hard to find similar offerings, this training can be sourced online from the States, but time differences may make this an impractical option.  

Fast forward to the 2020’s…

Fast forward to the 2020’s and many developers who started life on the early IBM systems have either been promoted into senior roles, cross-trained to other systems, have retired, or are looking to retire soon. 

The IBM i platform is not as well-known as other platforms like Windows, Linux, and macOS. As a result, there are not as many people who are familiar with the platform, which means there are fewer people who are qualified to develop applications for it. Additionally, the IBM i platform uses a programming language called RPG (Report Program Generator), which is not widely taught in universities.  

The IBM i user interface is ‘green screen’ and is a far cry from modern windows graphical interfaces that younger people are familiar with. 

It is hard to gain the interest of the younger generation in developing on the IBM i because many of the applications were written decades ago and support/modification requires knowledge of a fixed format programming style. Fortunately the IBM I has been moving with the times and programming RPG is now fully free format and IBM i supports Java development with a native JDK. 

So, where are the next generation of IBM i developers coming from? There are a few different sources: 

1. Cross-training from other platforms: Many developers who work on other platforms, such as Windows or Linux, may not be familiar with the IBM i platform but have transferable skills that can be applied to the platform. By offering cross-training opportunities, businesses can bring in developers who have experience with other platforms and teach them the specific skills needed to work on the IBM i platform.  IBM currently run courses to cross-train developers who are working on other systems onto the IBM i. 

2. Apprenticeships and internships: Apprenticeships and internships are a great way to bring in new talent and give them the training and experience they need to become proficient IBM i developers. This is obviously costly as although salary expectations are not high the time invested to train can be costly and utilises existing experienced resources.  

3. Community outreach and education: Finally, businesses and organizations that rely on the IBM i platform can help to raise awareness of the platform and the opportunities it offers. By hosting workshops, webinars, and other educational events, businesses can introduce the platform to developers who may not be familiar with it and show them the benefits of working on the IBM i platform. 

In conclusion, there are many, many UK businesses running IBM i systems and their applications managing business-critical functions. Whilst there is an ongoing demand, companies will need to invest in the procurement and development of new talent to support and develop these systems into the future or turn to an IBM i specialist such as KFA.  

At KFA we have employed school leavers and put them through apprenticeship schemes and have also employed college leavers and undergraduates and trained them to develop on the IBM i.

IT is not everyone’s cup of tea, but we have had our fair share of success with some very talented 20-year-olds now part of our development team.   

Richard Austin

KFA Connect – Director

3rd April 2023

Want to know more? Get in touch with our team today.

So, What is IBM i Consultancy?

IBM i Consultancy refers to consulting services that help organisations optimise and leverage their IBM i (formerly known as AS/400 or iSeries) systems.

IBM i is a mid-range computer platform that runs applications for any size of business and provides a stable, reliable, and secure operating system.

An IBM i consultant is an expert in the IBM i platform who provides expert advice and guidance to organisations on how to get the most out of their IBM i systems. They have often spent many years working on the IBM i predecessor systems which laid the grounding for the system as it is today.

IBM i consultants can help with a variety of tasks, including system analysis, architecture design, software development, system implementation, optimisation, security, project management, and troubleshooting.

IBM i consultants will have extensive experience in the IBM i platform and related technologies and can help organisations develop customised solutions that meet their unique business requirements.

They can also help organisations with system upgrades, data migration, and integration with other systems including eCommerce platforms.

In this article, we will explore the role of IBM i Consultancy, the benefits it offers to businesses, and the skills required to be a successful consultant.

Role of an IBM i Consultant

The role of an IBM i consultant is to help businesses make informed decisions about IBM i application development, system administration, and management. A consultant will work closely with clients to understand their business objectives, challenges, and requirements. They then provide expert advice and guidance on application design, development methodologies, architecture, development, project management, and deployment strategies.

AS part of the role, consultants can help clients identify areas where improvements can be made to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and drive growth. They also advise clients on how to select the right technologies, tools, and platforms to meet their specific needs.

Benefits of an IBM i Consultant

IBM i consultancy offers several benefits to businesses, including:

Expertise: IBM i software consultants bring in-depth knowledge and experience in software development, architecture, and project management. They will have worked on numerous projects across various industries, and they understand the best practices for delivering high-quality IBM i solutions.

Cost Savings: IBM i consultancy can help businesses reduce costs by optimising development processes, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and avoiding costly mistakes. By understanding your current estate and the associated costs a good consultant will be able to offer potential ways to reduce costs and increase efficiency on both the hardware management and your applications.

Scalability: IBM i consultancy helps businesses to scale their software systems to meet the changing needs of their customers and markets. They can advise on the best technologies, tools, and platforms to support growth and expansion.

Competitive Advantage: consultancy can help businesses gain a competitive advantage by developing and enhancing systems that are more efficient, innovative, and customer-centric.

Skills Required for IBM i Consultancy

To be a successful IBM i consultant, several skills are required, including:

Technical Expertise

IBM i consultants must have a deep understanding of software development methodologies, architecture, design, and project management. They must be familiar with various programming languages, tools, and platforms. They must have a good understanding of the IBM i operating system and hardware and it’s capabilities to deliver robust leading-edge business solutions.

Communication Skills

IBM i consultants must have excellent communication skills to articulate complex technical concepts to clients and stakeholders. They must also be able to listen carefully to client’s needs and requirements.

Analytical Skills

IBM i consultants must have strong analytical skills to evaluate business requirements, identify technical challenges, and develop solutions that meet clients’ needs.

Project Management Skills

IBM i consultants must have project management skills to manage development projects, set project timelines, and ensure that projects are completed and delivered on time and within budget.

Conclusion

IBM i consultancy can help organisations ensure that their IBM i systems are running efficiently, securely, and optimised to meet their business goals and objectives.

IBM i consultancy is a critical service that helps businesses make informed decisions about software development and how best to manage new and existing solutions. It offers multiple benefits, including expertise, cost savings, scalability, and competitive advantage.

You can be confident that as an “IBM” Registered Business Partner, the KFA Connect team also has the skills to develop, test, and support your IBM i applications in addition to the skills to help you with your daily management of the IBM platform and operating system.

Special Offer

Take advantage of KFA Connect’s Special Offer of 2 FREE 90-Minute Consulting Sessions!

We are giving your business access to our team of experts who will be able to assist you with new ideas for your IBM i application, migration from the IBM i, IBM i integration, or improvements to the day-to-day operational running of your system.

Nicki Smith

KFA Connect – Sales & Marketing Manager

31st March 2023

Want to know more? Get in touch with our team today.

So What is Mental Health?

Mental health is our state of mind, our emotional and psychological well-being. It determines how we cope with day-to-day issues.

Mental Health is complex and changeable, it needs to be acknowledged and looked after.

Why is it so important?

Our mental health is as important as our physical health. An individual with good mental health will be a good employee, husband/wife, mother/father, colleague, and friend.

So, What is ‘Mental Ill Health’?

Mental ill health by its very definition is when we are mentally unwell, we can feel unable to cope with stress and anxiety which can lead to depression and addictive behaviour. Mental ill health can lead to a feeling you cannot see a way forward.

In contrast, people with good mental health are capable of setting goals and being able to achieve them.

The Mental Health Continuum

This is a scale used to attempt to determine the state of an individual’s mental health.

The scale is divided into 5 levels as follows:

In Crisis

• Very anxious
• Absenteeism
• Weight loss
• Exhausted

Struggling

• Anxious
• Depressed
• Poor performance
• Tired

Surviving

• Worried
• Sad
• Distracted
• Withdrawn

Thriving

• Positive
• Calm
• Performing well
• Normal social activity

Excelling

• Happy
• Energetic
• Performing above par
• Reaching full potential

Some Examples of Mental Ill Health

Suicidal

Where someone feels they can no longer carry on with life. Where they can see no hope for the future.

Depression

A feeling of being very low for a sustained period of time. Depression can make people insular and want to isolate themselves from others.

Worried

When you feel anxiety in your everyday life, but you are able to cope with it in isolation. Anxiety shows through physical symptoms and may result in panic attacks.

Eating Disorders

An obsessive behaviour that may be triggered by PTSD, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Examples of eating disorders can include Anorexia and Bulimia.

Self-Harming

Where an individual can inflict physical pain upon themselves. Another example of self-harm is when an individual puts themselves at unnecessary risk such as starting fights.

Mental Ill Health Factors

Mental ill Health can be influenced by factors in an individual’s personal, educational, and work lives.

In a work environment, the following can all lead to stress, anxiety, and feeling vulnerable:

• Being overworked
• Lack of training and therefore not being qualified to perform a role
• Return from sickness
• Lack of objectiveness

Outside of work pressures can also lead to mental ill health:

• Relationship breakdowns
• Grief
• Financial worries
• Poor physical health

What can we do to improve our Mental Health as Individuals?

Get Outside

Being outdoors is great for our mental well-being. Spending time in nature lifts our spirits and helps with coping strategies.

Physical Activity

Physical activity, be that walking or sport releases endorphins that make us feel good. Physical tiredness can also help us to sleep better.

Nutrition

Eating well has many physical and mental benefits. A balanced healthy diet leads to feeling more energetic which in turn makes us feel more capable of physical activity. A healthy diet also reduces mood swings.

Sleep

Adequate rest and sleep are essential to good mental health, a lack of sleep leads to tiredness that leads to wanting energy which leads to a poor diet.        

As Employers What Can We Do to Support Our Employee’s Mental Well-being?

It is important to notice the signs of mental ill health, is someone quieter than normal, more withdrawn, missing social events, looking tired all the time for no apparent reason, have they recently suffered a loss, had a relationship breakdown etc.

If you do see a change in an individual’s behaviour or your team report to you that they have seen a change in a colleague, then you need to take some steps to help:

• Talk to the person or offer for them to talk to someone else if they do not feel comfortable talking to you.
• Listen intently, don’t judge, show empathy, give reassurance, give the person time, offer resources, and don’t offer solutions.

Resources for supporting individuals can include a Mental Health First Aider (MHFA), NHS England, Public Health England, and Charities.

Mental Health Awareness at KFA Connect

At KFA Connect we take our employee’s mental well-being very seriously.

Senior Management attends regular training on how best to support our employees and are always looking for new ways to support our hardworking team.

One of these ways includes our Employee Benefits program, Perkbox which offers curated ‘Wellness’ content for mental health and well-being as well as giving monthly points to every employee which can be used for a ‘perk’ of their choice. There are meditation sessions, Yoga & Pilates, sleep stories, workouts, music, and webinars as well as talking therapy and hypnotherapy on offer. It is also a way for peer-to-peer recognition to be shared within the team – especially important since we have adopted a hybrid approach to working, post-covid.

We believe that it’s the little things that make a difference, like giving our team Amazon vouchers on Employee Recognition Day in March and holding social events throughout the year to make sure we all spend time together as a team are all really important.

Richard Austin

KFA Connect – Director

29th March 2023

Get in touch with our team today.

Software companies have a unique opportunity to lead the way in sustainable practices.

As the world continues to become more aware of the impact of human activities on the environment, there is an increasing demand for companies to adopt more sustainable practices.

Software companies are no exception and have a significant impact on the environment, both through their operations and the products they create. In fact, as digital technologies become more pervasive in our daily lives, software companies have a unique opportunity to lead the way in sustainable practices.

Here Are Some Ways Software Companies Can Be More Sustainable:

Use Renewable Energy Sources

One of the most significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions is the energy used to power data centres and servers. By switching to renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power, software companies can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. For example, Microsoft has committed to being carbon negative by 2030 and has already made significant investments in renewable energy.

Companies can also use energy-efficient hardware and employ power management techniques to reduce their energy consumption.

Optimise Software Design & Create Sustainable Software Solutions

Software companies can also reduce their carbon footprint by optimizing their software design. This includes designing software that uses fewer resources such as memory, storage, and processing power. This not only makes the software more efficient but also reduces the energy needed to power data centres.

Software companies can create sustainable software products by developing energy-efficient algorithms and features that reduce the energy consumption of devices. Companies can also design products that encourage users to reduce their energy consumption, like smart thermostats and lighting systems.

Turn off systems that are not needed 24/7

It is very easy to ‘run up’ a server to install some software and see how it works for you but remember to switch it off when you have finished. Applications are often used for a piece of development and are not needed again for a period of time.

Whilst these systems are running they are using power so be sure to regularly check which systems you are using and how often and turn them off when not in use.

Embrace Remote Work

Remote work can significantly reduce a company’s carbon footprint by reducing the need for commuting thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and office space.

By embracing remote work, software companies can reduce their energy consumption, save on office expenses, and attract talented employees from around the world.

Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years, with the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating this trend. In addition, remote work can also improve work-life balance and increase employee satisfaction.

Practice Sustainable Product Development

Sustainable product development involves considering the entire product lifecycle, from design to disposal. This includes using environmentally friendly materials, designing products that can be easily disassembled and recycled, and minimising the amount of packaging used.

By adopting sustainable product development practices, software companies can reduce their impact on the environment.

Use Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is a more sustainable option than traditional data centres because it allows multiple users to share the same resources. This reduces the need for individual companies to build and maintain their data centres, which can be costly and resource intensive.

Adopt Green Business Practices

Software companies can adopt green business practices like recycling, reducing waste, and minimizing their use of paper products. Companies can also source environmentally friendly products and services and choose suppliers who share their sustainability goals.

Support Environmental Causes

Software companies can support environmental causes through partnerships with non-profit organisations or through donations.

Companies can also engage their employees in environmental causes by organising volunteer activities or encouraging them to participate in community initiatives.

Measure & Report on Sustainability

To be truly sustainable, companies must measure and report on their sustainability efforts. Companies can track their energy consumption, carbon emissions, waste reduction, and other sustainability metrics to assess their progress and identify areas for improvement.

By publicly reporting on their sustainability efforts, companies can also demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility and transparency.

In conclusion, software companies have a significant opportunity to reduce their environmental impact and become more sustainable.

By embracing remote work, using renewable energy, adopting green business practices, creating sustainable software products, supporting environmental causes, and measuring and reporting on sustainability, companies can make a positive impact on the environment while also building a more sustainable business.

Nicki Smith

KFA Connect – Sales & Marketing Manager

27th March 2023

Want to know more? Get in touch with our team today.