Over the last few years, a strong modernization plan has been introduced, based upon a consolidation project that focuses on Open Source architectures and platforms, in particular Linux environments, while reducing costs.

The plan involves a migration from the previous departmental systems to a centralized IBM structure, using the IBM z9 mainframe platform entirely based on the Linux for System z architecture.

The new system is centred on a technological platform consisting of a z9 Business Class system, an IBM System Storage DS6800 sub-system and the IBM System Storage TS1130 Tape Drive.

The system features a software architecture based on the Open Source Linux SUSE platform for System z, enhanced by IBM middleware software components such as Domino, WebSphere and Tivoli that help improve the whole system's performance and functionality.

The migration project was run by IBM specialists supported by IBM International Software Laboratories, in close co-operation with external companies that looked after the overall project management and the applications and also taking into account the customer's resources. The whole team was lead by managers of the CED department of the Regional Authority.

Thanks to the adoption of this new infrastructure, Region Calabria is one the first Public Authority bodies to have completed the consolidation process of applications on Open Source platforms, thus creating a number of advantages such as:

• significant reduction of operational costs for the technological infrastructure of its information systems;
• improved system availability and performance through the consolidation of all processes on a single platform ensuring high solidity, reliability and especially availability (99.99%);
• better system control through an open platform (Linux on System z) featuring software modules for effective system monitoring such as IBM Tivoli Monitoring, offering enhanced capabilities;
• compliance with the standards of openness and cooperation with the Public administration.