Too Big to Fail: Why Mainframe Exit Projects Are Likely to Fail in the Age of Generative AI

As Generative AI reshapes modernization strategies, many organizations are reassessing long-held assumptions about mainframe migration. Read the latest Gartner® research on the risks, realities, and strategic considerations technology leaders should evaluate before pursuing a mainframe exit.

In this report

  • Examine how Generative AI impacts code understanding, code conversion, and IT operations

  • Understand the difference between mainframe migration and modernization

  • Explore why many organizations overestimate current AI-driven migration capabilities

  • Learn how environment size and complexity influence strategic decisions

  • Evaluate modernization, optimization, migration, and hybrid approaches for the future

Why it matters

Mainframe strategy decisions carry significant operational, financial, and business risk. This research provides practical guidance to help technology leaders make informed decisions about modernization and migration initiatives in the age of Generative AI.

Read the Gartner report

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Gartner, Too Big to Fail: Why Mainframe Exit Projects Are Likely to Fail in the Age of Generative AI, By Dennis Smith, Alessandro Galimberti, Tobi Bet, 8 April 2026

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