Modernize Applications: Accelerate COBOL transformation to Java with WCA4Z

In this third synergy story, Watson Code Assistant for Z (WCA for Z) and Test Accelerator for Z (TA for Z) work together to accelerate COBOL-to-Java transformation while ensuring functional consistency and quality through automated testing.
Building on the refactored COBOL service created in the previous phase, the developer uses Watson Code Assistant for Z’s AI-powered transformation features to automatically convert the COBOL logic into Java.
 Each COBOL paragraph becomes a Java class or method, and the generated code preserves the same structure, logic, and data flow — bridging traditional and modern paradigms.
Then, with Test Accelerator for Z, the same integration tests that were recorded earlier are reused.
 These tests validate that the transformed Java code behaves identically to the COBOL version. The side-by-side comparison of test outcomes confirms functional equivalence, ensuring a seamless transition and interoperability between COBOL and Java on z/OS.
While many clients and partners choose to stop at modularization and optimization, this synergy story demonstrates how modernization can go even further — enabling transformation to Java when and where it makes strategic sense.