Salesforce and IBM have joined forces to help you use data hidden in old mainframes. By connecting Salesforce Einstein to IBM Watsonx, you can build AI tools that use your actual business history. This means your AI gives accurate answers based on real-time data without the risk or cost of moving files between systems.
Key takeaways
- Access data from IBM Z mainframes and Db2 databases directly within Salesforce.
- Use IBM Granite models to generate accurate business documents and customer replies.
- Eliminate the cost of moving data between systems using Zero Copy technology.
- Protect customer privacy with built-in tools that monitor AI for accuracy and bias.
- Build automated agents that handle tasks like returns by checking inventory in real-time.
Most companies cannot use their best data for AI because it sits in old systems. Nearly 80% of business information stays trapped in mainframes and legacy databases.
The Salesforce and IBM partnership changes this. You can now connect your customer records to your deep business history to make better decisions faster.
Use your mainframe data without moving it
Moving data between systems is expensive and creates security risks. The Zero Copy Partner Network lets Salesforce "read" your IBM databases without making copies.
Your sales team sees the most current information immediately. This removes the need for complex data transfer projects that often result in outdated information.
"The integration of Zero Copy technology between Salesforce and IBM represents a paradigm shift. We are moving away from data synchronization toward data virtualization, where the location of the data no longer limits its utility."
This approach reduces the cost of maintaining your technology. You no longer need to build bridges between your old systems and your cloud CRM. Your old data becomes a modern asset.
Give your team accurate AI tools
General AI can sometimes invent facts. This partnership uses IBM Granite models, which are Large Language Models (LLMs)—or AI programs—trained specifically for business tasks.
Your service agents get answers grounded in your specific product manuals. You can also automate tasks like summarizing long contracts or writing code for internal tools.
- Model Transparency: See exactly where the AI got its information to ensure it is true.
- Domain Specificity: Use models built for specific industries like finance or healthcare.
- Direct Orchestration: Trigger AI responses inside your sales tools using simple prompts.
This changes how you serve customers. Instead of generic replies, your agents provide solutions based on your specific products and customer history.
Build trust with automated guardrails
AI must follow your company rules and government laws. IBM Watsonx.governance works with the Salesforce Einstein Trust Layer to keep your data safe.
These tools flag mistakes before your customers see them. They also keep a clear record of how the AI made a specific choice.
- Data Sovereignty: Keep data within your specific region to meet local laws.
- Mistake Prevention: Monitor the AI to stop it from providing incorrect information.
- Audit Trails: Review exactly how the AI reached a conclusion for insurance or banking needs.
This helps you grow your business with AI while keeping your reputation safe. When your AI suggests a credit limit change, you can explain exactly why it happened.
Automate complex tasks with real-time insights
This partnership helps your employees work faster. When a sales manager uses the Salesforce mobile app, they get deep analytics from IBM in real-time.
In manufacturing, a manager can ask the AI about supply chain delays in an IBM database. The AI then suggests different products to offer the customer so you do not lose the sale.
You can also create autonomous agents that work 24/7. These agents can process a product return by checking your mainframe inventory and updating loyalty points at the same time.
How to plan your AI project
Using these tools requires a clear plan. You must first audit your data to see which old files will provide the most value when connected to the cloud.
Focus on your business problems first rather than the technology. Identify a specific issue, such as high customer churn, then use the IBM and Salesforce tools to fix it.
Training your staff is also vital. Your team needs to move from using "gut feelings" to using data-driven insights to help your customers.
Frequently asked questions
How does the IBM Watsonx integration benefit Salesforce users?
It gives you access to IBM’s Granite AI models directly inside your CRM. You can use these specialized tools to automate customer service and sales tasks. Because these models use your specific business data, the answers are more accurate than general AI tools.
What is "Zero Copy" integration in the context of IBM and Salesforce?
Zero Copy is a way to connect two systems so they can share information without moving it. Salesforce can look at your IBM mainframe data in real-time. This saves money on IT infrastructure and ensures your AI always uses the latest facts to help customers.
Are the Granite LLMs safe for regulated industries?
Yes, these models are built for businesses with strict rules. They use transparent data sources and include tools to prevent bias. When used with Salesforce, they meet the high security standards required for healthcare, government, and financial services.
CodeSierra helps you connect your IBM data to Salesforce to drive growth. Our certified architects provide fixed-scope pricing to ensure your project stays on budget. We build the technical foundation so your team can work faster.
Ready to get started? Contact us for a free consultation.Source: This article was curated from CX Today and enriched with expert insights from CodeSierra Tech Private Limited.