Embracing Modern AS400 RPG for 3X Efficiency & Innovation

If you have been in the AS400 industry for long, you have likely encountered myths like –

• RPG is a dead language
• RPG lacks flexibility and integration capacity
• RPG is incompatible with the cloud technology
• Finding RPG developers is difficult as its talent is shrinking
• Most AS400 (Application System/400) users are shifting to other programming languages

Well, the reality is quite different.

• RPG is a programming language that refuses to die.
• It has evolved with time, offering flexibility and robust coding capabilities.
• Contrary to the misconception of scarcity, AS400 RPG developers still exist with multiple training avenues available to foster new talent.
• The AS400 iSeries application users have realized the strength of RPG with many businesses continuing to leverage the language for their critical business operations.

Thus, in essence, RPG continues to be a driving force in the AS400 ecosystem.

Are you an IBM i user, aiming to maximize efficiency and innovation in your AS400 environment?

If yes, then buckle up as you are going to explore how AS400 RPG revolutionizes your business operations in the modern business landscape.

Let’s set the ball rolling!

Why Hiring AS400 RPG Developers is a Futuristic Move?

Even in a tech landscape dominated by cloud-native platforms and next-gen AI, IBM i remains a trusted workhorse for critical enterprise workloads—and RPG is still its backbone.

While newer tools steal the spotlight, decision-makers across manufacturing, retail, finance, and logistics continue to rely on the unmatched stability and performance of AS400 systems.

But there’s a challenge most teams now face – “Where do you find the right RPG talent to sustain and scale this legacy investment?”

That’s where Integrative Systems comes in.

We bring more than just resources—we bring deep-rooted expertise in RPG programming on IBM i and a vision to align legacy systems with modern goals.

Why RPG Skills are back in Focus?

The resurgence in RPG developer demand isn’t accidental—it’s business-critical.

With a retiring workforce and an aging skill base, organizations running IBM AS400 RPG systems face a growing talent gap.

Maintaining uptime, integrating APIs, and modernizing green screens all depend on RPG developers who understand the past, but think with the future in mind.

Here’s why hiring AS400 RPG developers is becoming a priority –

• RPG still powers core business logic in banking, retail, healthcare, and supply chain operations.
• Modern RPG IV/ILE programming blends seamlessly with new-age technologies like REST APIs, DB2 for i, and cloud interfaces.
• RPG modernization and refactoring reduces tech debt and improves business agility.

Yet, in-house teams often lack the bandwidth—or updated skillsets—to deliver all of this.

That’s where you need an extended team of AS400 RPG programmers that work like your own.

RPG Programming in AS400 – Still a Pillar of Enterprise Operations

Think of a high-volume retail chain managing transactions, logistics, inventory, and vendor orders – all routed through a central AS400 system.

A small glitch in RPG logic can delay thousands of orders. The complexity lies not in code volume, but in code familiarity and system interdependencies.

Our RPG developers are trained not just in syntax—but in enterprise logic, error handling, and business continuity. Whether it’s working on legacy RPG III, or refactoring into RPG IV/ILE, we match the skill level with the technical demands.

Where do our RPG Developers Create Business Value?

We’ve worked with clients across multiple industries—each with their own modernization journeys, but united by a need for reliable, adaptable RPG expertise.

Here’s where our developers have made an impact.

Manufacturing

Problem

A legacy AS400 application couldn’t communicate with modern ERP systems.

Solution

Our RPG developers created data bridges using RPGLE and SQL integration, enabling automated material tracking and real-time inventory updates.

Result

The manufacturer cut down production delays by 27% and saved hundreds of manual hours each quarter.

Retail & Distribution

Problem

Fragmented reporting due to outdated RPG-based sales modules.

Solution

We customized RPG programs to write directly into Power BI-compatible formats.

Result

Store managers now view real-time sales dashboards without needing data transformation delays.

Banking & Finance

Problem

Compliance rules changed, but the AS400-based credit scoring logic was hardcoded in RPG.

Solution

Our RPG consultants rewrote the logic using modular RPG ILE, allowing faster rule updates and documentation.

Result

Compliance update cycles went from 6 weeks to under 2.

Agile RPG Programming – The Integrative Systems Approach

At Integrative Systems, we blend legacy expertise with modern delivery models to give you more than just staffing—we deliver outcomes.

Here’s how we do it –

Technical Discovery – We assess your RPG workload—line by line, module by module.

Role Mapping – Based on your system’s architecture, we assign RPG III, IV, or ILE specialists who already understand your language.

Engagement Flexibility – Hire full-time RPG programmers or opt for project-based consulting—whichever fits your delivery timeline.

Documentation & Knowledge Transfer – Every line of code we write, or touch is documented, so you’re never vendor-locked.

We understand that the real value lies in modernizing the right pieces without breaking what works.

For clients planning AS400 transformation, our RPG developers –

• Refactor monolithic programs into modular RPGLE.
• Integrate legacy logic with modern APIs.
• Bridge green screens to web front-ends using tools like Profound UI or LANSA.
• Use SQL and DB2 enhancements to eliminate unnecessary record-level access coding.

Because real modernization isn’t rip-and-replace. It’s evolve and elevate.

Next, let’s understand a bit more about RPG development and all things RPG.

Getting Started with Modern RPG Development

Data Analytics Integration

Modern RPG development allows businesses to establish synergy between RPG and data analytics, a fusion that was just an idea in history.

Today’s RPG developers aren’t just maintaining code—they’re enabling smarter decisions.

By integrating modern data analytics into RPG applications, they’re helping businesses tap into the value of their IBM i data—without shifting platforms or adding unnecessary complexity.

The outcome? Teams can process high volumes of operational data and turn it into real-time insights that actually drive action.

It’s not about rewriting everything. It’s about evolving what already works to support what’s next.

Web Services and APIs

RPG programming language, which was once limited to business application development, has now evolved as a dynamic tool which seamlessly integrates with a variety of web services and APIs.

Business leaders are benefiting from the synergy by connecting various internal RPG based applications with external systems, easily automating manual processes, and accessing real-time data.

This capability implies that the RPG programming language’s future is about limitless -newer trends and integration capabilities.

Free-format RPGLE

From fixed-format to free-format RPGLE, the programming language has come a long way.

Along with flexibility to write more intuitive, efficient, and modern code, RPG free-format offers a shallow learning curve for beginners and promotes effortless code development.

Cloud Integration

Unlike the earlier on-prem-only setup, today’s AS400 RPG programmers can work hand-in-hand with cloud environments—bringing a new level of agility to trusted IBM i applications.

This shift allows businesses to unlock cloud advantages like scalability, flexibility, and cost control—without walking away from the reliability of their AS400 systems.

RPG has certainly evolved—but that doesn’t mean it’s the answer to every challenge.

So the real question is – when does RPG fit the bill, and when is it time to look beyond? Let’s break that down next.

RPG Language vs Other Programming Languages – When to Choose AS400 RPG?

RPG, although an old language, has its share of strengths, making it a compelling choice in most cases.

Let’s explore the scenarios when you should choose RPG.

Legacy AS400 System Modernization

RPG programming in AS400 is a great choice for legacy system modernization if your business is heavily invested in AS-400 systems. It has strong compatibility with IBM iSeries, enabling smoother transition and integration of new functionalities, strong security features, and more.

Business-critical Applications

RPG is many businesses running business-critical applications on AS400 owing to its reliability and low-risk profile. It’s an ideal pick if your business cannot afford downtime or errors.

Data-intensive Workloads

Are you looking for a programming language that excels in data-driven projects? Look no further than RPG.

With its brawny SQL capabilities, it efficiently manages large data processing and analysis, and smoother integration with multiple data sources, making it an ideal choice for data-intensive projects.

Rapid Development

Does your business prioritize rapid development and faster time to market?

AS400 RPG programming makes it possible with its modern, free-format coding. It boosts productivity, facilitates faster project completion, and helps you stay ahead of the competition.

Budget Constraints

RPG is not just a programming language but an armor to stay ahead of the cut-throat competition.

Is your business in urgent need of development but is tight on budget? RPG has got you covered. Its streamlined, cost-effective development cycle ensures a competitive advantage even within your budget restrictions.

If not RPG then you can use different programming languages such as –

1. Python for general purposes
2. Ruby for scripting, automation
3. JavaScript for web development
4. SQL for database management and querying

Next, let’s explore the business use cases of RPG in diverse industries.

RPG in Business Case – Real-World Applications

Let’s look at the RPG use cases in real-world business world applications.

Retail Inventory Management Optimization

Let’s consider- A retail chain, ABC company is struggling to efficiently manage its inventory across 30 stores. There is a need for an end-to-end inventory management system that automates stock-level tracking, provides real-time insights, and offers centralized inventory control.

Solution with IBM RPG programming

The AS400 iSeries programmers build a unique RPG-based inventory management portal that connects with each point of inventory.

This system tracks stock levels, automates order processes, generates reports based on the insights, and provides timely insights.

Healthcare Patient Records Management

Let’s consider – A busy healthcare facility called XYZ Medical Center needs a secure and faster way to manage appointment scheduling, billing, patient records, and more. They are seeking a one-stop solution to build a unique record system that will also meet compliance with healthcare standards.

Solution with AS400 RPG

The RPG programmers manage the A-Z of patient records securely. With the special domain expertise, the developers are successful in ensuring compliance with stringent healthcare rules, facilitating easy access to patient data, and boosting the efficiency in healthcare worker’s performance.

Manufacturing Process Optimization

Let’s consider a manufacturing company, PQC company is struggling to survive due to slow production processes and high operational costs. They are in urgent need of an efficient solution that will streamline manufacturing processes, optimize resources, and help them gain a competitive edge.

Solution with IBM RPG programming

The AS400 RPG experts walk in with their deep technology knowledge to automate manufacturing workflow, track production progress, and monitor resource usage.

The system also generates real-time insights enabling informed decision-making and identifying bottlenecks.

Remember, developing a custom RPG solution is more than solving the immediate challenges. It also involves considering a range of factors such as maintainability, cost-efficiency and ROI, and adherence to the best industry standards, that make it an ideal solution.

Moving forward, the notion about the scarcity of AS400 iSeries developers is definitely true.

AS400 iSeries developers are difficult to find at the rate of the 1990s. However, there still exists an agile, skilled, and knowledgeable workforce of AS400 professionals. Let’s see where you can find them.

Where do I find an AS400 RPG developer for my IBM i initiatives?

There are 2 ways you can find an RPG AS400 programmer for your next RPG project.

1. Hire a full-time AS-400 team member

Perks –

• Great for long-term dedication
• Employee commitment and accountability
• Confidence in the security and quality of the development

Challenges –

• High cost to maintain staff
• Difficulty in finding suitable candidates

2. Outsource from a reliable AS400 development partner

Perks –

• Suitable for short-term dedication
• Ability to Focus on core business needs
• Access to a vast talent pool of RPGLE developers

Challenges –

• Landing on the wrong partner
• Communication gap
• Limited control

Thinking about where will you find a reliable outsourcing partner with a proven record of successful projects, and satisfied clientele, who prioritizes your success at every step of the project?

Knock knock!

Integrative Systems – AS400 RPG Partner of your Imagination is Here

We are a leading AS400 iSeries partner with 20+ years of profound experience in serving a variety of AS400 RPG needs.

Whether you need a dedicated team of RPG AS400 developers for remote set-up or an on-site team, we cater to all sorts of needs for all types of industries.

What differentiates us from other AS400 service providers is we are an IBM Silver Business Partner and INC 5000 ‘One of America’s Fastest Growing Company’.

We employ years of knowledge with dedication to turn each challenge into a solution.

Ready to embark on your AS400 RPG journey?

Let’s join hands and start our journey toward AS400 success. Take the first step by reaching out to us at [email protected], and our experts shall get back to you within 2 business days

Frequently Asked Questions About AS400 RPG Developers

1. What’s RPG in AS400?

Ans. Report Programming Generator is a programming language used to build, update and maintain various applications on the AS400 iSeries platform.

As against popular belief, AS400 RPG developers are not hard to find if you search them with AS400 solutions and service providers.

2. What is RPG Programming Language Used For?

Ans. RPG programmers use the language to create, update, or maintain business applications on IBM computer systems. RPG programming is primarily used for enhancing AS400 software, resolving technical challenges, automating business processes, and managing security & access control.

3. Can a single RPG developer manage my AS400 applications?

Ans. A skilled RPG developer can manage your AS400 applications, from maintenance and upgrades to minor integrations. If you’re planning to hire a single RPG developer, you must ensure that the scope is clear & your AS400 environment is steady.

4. What’s the cost to hire an AS400 developer?

Ans. The cost to hire AS400 developers is calculated based on various factors. These factors include – project complexity, duration, expertise & experience required, the engagement model chosen. The cost approximation largely depends on these factors.

5. Do AS400 development partners provide ongoing support post-development?

Ans. Yes. Most experienced RPG/AS400 service providers offer post-development support as part of their engagement. From bug fixes to performance tuning and routine maintenance—they help ensure your applications stay optimized.

6. Can I bring in RPG programmers to support my in-house team?

Ans. You sure can. Many businesses choose to extend their in-house capabilities by bringing in external RPG talent—without the long-term hiring overhead. Whether it’s staff augmentation or full project ownership, the choice is yours.