HA and DR Readiness Framework for IBM i Environments

IBM i organizations often ask whether their HA and DR strategy is “good enough.” A more useful question is how mature it is.

This readiness framework describes five levels of HA and DR maturity, helping organizations assess their current posture and identify what is required to improve resilience.

Level 1: Replication exists (HA and DR Readiness Framework)

Data is replicated, but recovery confidence is low. RTO and RPO are assumed rather than measured, and testing is infrequent.

Risk profile: High. Availability exists, confidence does not.

Level 2: Recoverability is defined

Recovery procedures are documented and targets exist. Some testing has been performed, but outcomes may vary.

Risk profile: Moderate. Recovery may work, but predictability is limited.

Level 3: Recoverability is proven

Recovery is tested regularly. Data integrity is validated, and recovery outcomes are repeatable.

Risk profile: Low. The organization can restart operations with confidence.

Level 4: Recoverability is operationalized

Recovery testing is routine and non-disruptive. Monitoring is proactive, and operational effort remains stable as environments grow.

Risk profile: Very low. HA is embedded in normal operations.

Level 5: Recoverability is resilient

HA scales with workload growth and platform evolution. Recovery confidence extends to auditors, regulators, and executive stakeholders.

Risk profile: Minimal. HA supports long-term business resilience.