IBM just released a new version of IBM i 7.4 — with some significant new capabilities. For most operating systems, a new version means that experts need to make sure that the new OS will work seamlessly with the existing database and applications. Often, this leads to the hiring of expensive consultants. Because of IBM i's integrated functionality, upgrading is generally so simple that in many cases an organization's business partner can do it overnight.

This white paper describes the unique nature of the IBM i platform in a world of otherwise thin, kernel-based operating systems. It also discusses why organizations that are running their operations on IBM i can benefit from upgrading to IBM i 7.4, whereas businesses that currently do not have IBM i in their datacenter could benefit from introducing the platform into their environment.