IBM is preparing to use Generative AI to address the problem of the extensive use of COBOL language code in our world, particularly in the banking sector. However, most of the old generation COBOL programmers have retired, and the new generation programmers have little interest in COBOL, leading to a severe shortage in this field.
A study conducted by the International Journal of Advanced Research in Science, Communication, and Technology (IJARSCT) estimates that 43% of the code in the banking industry is still COBOL code from the past.
IBM’s approach is to develop a tool called Watsonx Code Assistant, which helps to translate old COBOL code into modern languages like Java. However, it is still just an assistive tool for programmers in the code conversion process. Programmers still need to review and make further modifications to the code. IBM estimates that the tool can handle about 80-90% of the work.
IBM states that Watsonx Code Assistant is the result of blending the expertise and experience of the company in mainframe and AI. However, they admit that there are no real case studies yet of applying its use in code conversion for actual customers at this time.
TLDR: IBM is using Generative AI to solve the problem of outdated COBOL code in the banking industry. They have developed the Watsonx Code Assistant tool to translate COBOL code into modern languages. However, the tool is still an assistive aid, and programmers need to review and make additional modifications. IBM has not yet tested the tool in real customer cases.
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