Large SMEs pursuing server consolidation are reaching a tipping point with existing "scale out" strategies. The introduction of IBM's System z9 Business Class (z9 BC) mainframe moves mainframe technology within the reach of SMEs. Enterprises with large volumes of data requiring high availability and intensive processing should pursue a "scale up" strategy – a cost-effective way to deliver services in a consolidated utility infrastructure.

Shrinking Big Iron

IBM's z9 BC (announced in late April) lowers the entry price point for mainframe technology to approximately $100,000. IBM has previously delivered servers such as the z890 and z800 to the mid-market, so the z9 BC does not represent a significant change in product direction. It is the next logical packaging step to deliver functionality, previously released in the z9 109 systems, into the mid-market.

Info-Tech sees demand for mainframe technology in the mid-market being...