Exploring AI in Modernization with Chris Koppe from Fresh Solutions

Introduction:

In this episode of the Remain Software podcast, we sit down with Chris Koppe, Senior VP of Transformation Strategies at Fresh Solutions. With over 35 years of experience, Chris has been at the forefront of helping businesses in the IBM iCommunity develop modernization and transformation strategies. We dive into the buzz around AI in the IT sector, its role in modernization, and how Fresh Solutions is experimenting with AI to streamline processes and improve efficiency.

Chris’s Role at Fresh Solutions:

Chris Koppe’s vast experience at Fresh Solutions spans over three decades, where he focuses on helping companies, especially those in the IBM iCommunity, to modernize their code, infrastructure, and operations. His work involves developing strategies, roadmaps, and solutions for businesses aiming to future-proof their technology. With a hands-on approach, Chris ensures that modernization is not only about upgrading tech but about creating long-term value and aligning transformation goals with business needs.

AI in Modernization:

The Current Landscape In the last few years, AI has become a buzzword across industries, and modernization experts at Fresh Solutions have been actively researching its potential for the past nine months. Chris discusses how they are evaluating AI’s ability to provide pragmatic solutions within the modernization landscape. One area they’re excited about is the possibility of AI transforming legacy code—for instance, converting RPG (Report Program Generator) code to Java. While this concept shows promise, AI is not yet fully capable of handling these complex transformations. Instead, Fresh Solutions is identifying other more immediate, practical uses of AI within their projects, such as testing automation.

AI for Testing:

A Game-Changer in Modernization Projects One of the major hurdles in modernization projects is the significant amount of manual testing required to ensure code transformations are successful. Fresh Solutions has developed cutting-edge AI-driven tools that record and track tests from legacy technologies, allowing them to automatically generate tests for modern frameworks. This innovation dramatically reduces the effort required for testing, enabling teams to complete modernization projects faster and with fewer resources. Chris calls this a game-changer in the industry, as it eliminates some of the largest pain points in the modernization process.

image Sharing AI Innovations:

Early Days, but Promising Results Although Fresh Solutions is still in the early stages of research, they are already beginning to share their AI findings with the community. From video demos to blog posts, Chris and his team are committed to transparency in their AI journey. The primary goal is to automate labor-intensive tasks, reduce the need for manual intervention, and ultimately accelerate modernization efforts for businesses of all sizes. AI isn’t just a future vision—it’s already making tangible differences in project timelines and outcomes.

Natural Language Interfaces:

A Future for Modernization Tools Another exciting frontier that Fresh Solutions is exploring is the use of natural language interfaces. These interfaces could transform how users interact with X-Analysis tools, making them more intuitive and user-friendly. Imagine using everyday language to communicate with software—this could greatly simplify complex tasks and further reduce the learning curve for teams undergoing modernization projects.

Conclusion:

As AI continues to evolve, Fresh Solutions is staying at the forefront of innovation, helping businesses make smarter, more efficient choices when it comes to modernizing their tech stack. While AI’s full potential for code transformation is yet to be unlocked, it’s already transforming key processes like testing and workflow management. Chris remains optimistic, noting that AI will continue to reduce complexity, allowing businesses to stay ahead of the curve. As Fresh Solutions shares its advancements, the future of modernization is looking increasingly bright and automated.

Are you intrigued by how AI is transforming modernization strategies? Dive deeper into our conversation with Chris Koppe by watching the full video on our website. Stay tuned for more content and updates on the latest AI advancements in modernization, and learn how you can leverage AI to take your business to the next level!