Automated Workflow Conversion System for Mainframe Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Developers and programmers face difficulties transitioning between different programming environments and interfaces due to varying functions, architectures, and protocols, leading to inefficiencies and a steep learning curve, especially when interacting with mainframe operating systems that require manual conversion tools and subject matter expertise.
Innovation Solution
An automated infrastructure for intelligent file conversion that maps workflows from one tool format to another, using a computer-implemented method and system that includes processors and program instructions to convert workflows from a first tool format to a second tool format, validating the converted workflow based on a file definition schema, and routing it to an execution server, enabling interaction with mainframe operating systems through standardized XML workflows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If developers transition to different programming environments or interfaces, then they can access new platforms and tools, but they face difficulties due to learning curves and lack of implementation of similar functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal conversion system that can translate workflows between multiple different tool formats (Ansible, Azure, Packer, Terraform, Chef). This multi-functional capability allows developers to access various platforms without needing to learn each platform's specific syntax and conventions, as the conversion system handles the adaptation automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary conversion system that acts as a mediator between different tool formats. This intermediary automatically translates workflows from one format to another, eliminating the need for developers to directly learn and adapt to each new platform's specific interface and syntax requirements.
2Reliability
If third parties implement changes or updates to platforms, then the platforms gain improved functionality, but developers face additional difficulties due to platform-specific changes requiring updates to workflows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic conversion system that automatically adapts to platform changes and updates. When third parties modify their platforms, the conversion system dynamically adjusts its translation rules and mappings to accommodate new syntax, functions, or protocols, eliminating the need for manual workflow updates by developers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the conversion system monitors platform changes and automatically adjusts conversion rules. This feedback loop ensures that when platforms are updated by third parties, the conversion system learns from these changes and automatically adapts its translation process, maintaining workflow compatibility without requiring manual intervention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual conversion tools are used for mainframe operating systems, then workflows can be converted between formats, but the process requires subject matter expertise and increases time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the conversion system automatically performs workflow translations without requiring manual intervention or subject matter expertise. The system autonomously handles the entire conversion process by comparing source workflows against target platform specifications and generating converted workflows automatically, eliminating the time-consuming manual conversion process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual conversion process with an automated computational system. Instead of requiring developers to manually translate workflows using their expertise, the system uses automated algorithms and rule-based translations to perform the conversion, dramatically reducing the time and expertise required while maintaining accuracy.
4Reliability
If developers acquire extensive skill through time and training on a specific platform, then they achieve proficiency, but transitioning to new platforms incurs difficulties and inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal conversion framework that preserves developer proficiency across different platforms. By automatically translating workflows between various tool formats (Ansible, Azure, Packer, Terraform, Chef), the system allows developers to maintain their expertise in one platform while efficiently working with others, eliminating the productivity loss that would otherwise occur during platform transitions.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system, and computer program product for intelligent file conversion is provided. The method receives a first workflow in a first tool format. The first workflow contains a set of first elements associated with a set of tasks. The set of first elements in the first tool format are mapped to a set of second elements in a second tool format. The method generates a second workflow in the second tool format based on the set of second elements. The second workflow is validated based on a file definition schema for the second tool format and the second workflow is routed to an execution server.