IBM Power Systems Reviews

Users reported ROI improvements after upgrading to IBM Power Systems, particularly from POWER7 to POWER8. They cited enhanced virtualization, workload management, and reduced software licensing costs as significant benefits. Improved performance, scalability, and hardware upgrades were other advantages driving ROI. Organizations appreciated the increased reliability and reduced administrative tasks. Power8's capability to handle more workload with fewer resources contributed to its positive financial impact. Overall, they expressed satisfaction with increased performance and cost-effectiveness.

IBM Power Systems pricing is perceived as expensive compared to competitors, yet justifiable with its ROI, performance, and reliability for large workloads and enterprises. Users note the complexity in setup and licensing, favoring configurations that align with business scalability needs. While some appreciate cost-saving opportunities through oversubscription and inclusive licensing, others mention potential cost reductions could enhance competitiveness. Discounts may yield favorable pricing in certain regions, balancing the perceived value against higher initial costs.

• "When there is an error in the SAS drive of 10,000 RPM, my company buys support for 1,500 USD."
• "The solution's pricing is very, very high compared to other platforms."
• "It's more about the value you get for the price. Considering its stability and performance, the pricing is good."

IBM Power Systems is primarily used for database servers, core banking applications, and enterprise resource planning. It supports Oracle Databases, SAP HANA, and is highly valued for stability, reliability, and virtualization. Telecommunications, government, and educational sectors utilize it for middleware applications, disaster recovery, and data centers. Organizations appreciate its high availability, performance, and scalability, serving multiple clients efficiently through virtualization, making it ideal for critical applications in diverse environments.

Customers find IBM Power Systems' customer service generally strong and knowledgeable, with responsive support and skilled technicians. Many appreciate swift assistance, though some express concerns about outsourcing and tiered escalation impacting response times. While U.S.-based support is praised for effectiveness, others note frustration with first-level help and delays. Users favor in-person technicians for their expertise and accessibility. Some experience challenges due to regional support availability and delays, while many report positive interactions with support teams.

IBM Power Systems initial setup varies in complexity. Many find it straightforward with adequate experience and support, while some perceive it as challenging, especially for newcomers. The setup process often involves detailed planning and knowledge, requiring a knowledgeable team or IBM's assistance. Hardware installation is generally quick, but software setup and integration can be more time-consuming. Users highlight the importance of familiarity with IBM's unique terminology and tools for smoother deployment.

IBM Power Systems impresses with exceptional scalability, accommodating diverse needs from small businesses to large enterprises. Users appreciate its flexibility, allowing easy expansion and resource optimization without downtime. The platform supports multiple LPARs, enabling efficient system utilization and seamless upgrades from POWER8 to POWER9, benefiting varied industries. Its ability to handle large user bases while maintaining performance highlights its robust architecture. Scalability receives high praise, making it a preferred choice for many.

Users express high satisfaction with IBM Power Systems' stability, praising it for minimal downtime, exceptional reliability, and consistent performance. They note its ability to operate without unexpected outages, claiming it's more stable than competing platforms. Customers mention the hardware rarely experiencing failures and needing minimal maintenance. Even during upgrades, it remains stable. Many have used it extensively without encountering significant problems. The platform is regarded as an industry leader in terms of stability.