Mainframe Technologies

Empowering Your Mainframe Technologies

Data Key Design, Inc. is at the forefront of mainframe technology solutions, offering unparalleled expertise in system analysis, data management, and innovative solutions tailored to our clients' needs. Directed by William Hicks and Tom Conover, both seasoned experts with over 30 years of experience each, in the industry, we specialize in modernizing legacy systems, ensuring data integrity during migrations, and implementing robust solutions for complex business requirements.

Several mainframes on a cloud with a blue sky digital background. — Data Key Design, Inc. - Mainframes: The Giants Behind Today's Digital Economy

Our Expertise

William Hicks - Director of Mainframe Solutions and Innovation

With a distinguished career spanning three decades, William Hicks has become a leading authority in mainframe systems and data. His expertise encompasses a wide range of technical skills and a proven track record of managing and executing large-scale mainframe projects across various sectors, including entertainment giants like Universal Studios and iconic national treasures like Yosemite National Park.

Key Accomplishments:

Technical Mastery: Proficient in DB2, SQL, COBOL, RPG III/IV, ILE, and RPG Free, William has led the development and enhancement of critical business applications, data management systems, and website designs.
Project Management Excellence: Demonstrated ability to oversee projects from conception to completion, ensuring efficiency, security, and user-friendly design.
Innovative Solutions: Developed a SQL-based Retail Sales Reporting System, providing detailed insights into sales performance across 62 stores, thereby enhancing product visibility, customer service, and ultimately, profitability.
Automated Vendor Interfaces: Spearheaded the automation of data exchange with vendors, streamlining processes and improving operational efficiency.
Banking Interface System: Created a comprehensive system for managing daily banking activities, enhancing financial transaction management and reporting.
Warehouse Picking Application: Developed an application to optimize the product picking process, significantly improving warehouse operations efficiency.

Thomas C. Conover - Chief Mainframe Architecture and Integration Officer

With a diverse career spanning over three decades, Thomas C. Conover brings a wealth of experience in healthcare, insurance, executive recruitment, and entertainment industries. His proficiency in technical acumen and functional expertise has made him a valuable asset in various roles, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and innovation.

Key Accomplishments:

Technical Proficiency: Advanced knowledge in IBM i, COBOL/RPG, and intermediate skills in SQL and MS Office.
System and Application Analysis: Expertise in analyzing and enhancing system functionalities, data extracts/conversions, end-user reporting, EDI, contract analysis, account management, and royalty processing.
Error Reduction: Significantly reduced error rates in various data management tasks, such as reducing error record rates from over 75% to under 15% at L.A. Care Health Plan and reducing errors in Medi-Cal provider directories for Anthem, Blue Shield, and Kaiser.
Business Process Optimization: Initiated negotiations of provider contracts for multi-facility healthcare corporations and created a candidate screening process that reduced search time by 33%.
Financial Recovery: Identified and recovered significant amounts in accounts receivable transactions, including $30,000 at Health Net and $75,000 in annual savings through royalty payout rectifications at Warner/Chappell Music.

Professional Background:

L.A. Care Health Plan - Account Manager II (2015-2020): Oversaw and monitored Medi-Cal providers and membership data transfers, reducing error rates and solving major system bugs.
Axis Pacific Inc. - Business Analyst (2014-2015): Negotiated provider contracts and improved candidate screening processes.
The Disney Store Corporate - Business Analyst (2013-2014): Enhanced EDI-based wholesale business model functionalities.
Lifecare Assurance - Senior Developer/Analyst (2009-2013): Implemented rate increases for LTC Insurance clients and interpreted regulatory contracts.
Health Net - Senior Developer/Analyst (2005-2009): Converted membership files, maintained pricing modules, and streamlined Medicare/Medicaid processing.
Warner/Chappell Music - Senior Developer/Analyst (1993-2004): Developed royalty reconciliation accounting modules and rectified royalty payouts.

Technologies We Support

Legacy Systems Modernization: Transitioning from older systems and mainframe technologies to modern platforms without compromising data integrity or operational continuity.
Database Management and Data Analysis: Utilizing DB2, IBM i, COBOL/RPG, and SQL for advanced data management, reporting, and analytics.
Application Development: Expertise in COBOL, RPG III/IV, ILE, RPG Free, and other advanced technical skills for creating robust business applications.
System Integration: Ensuring seamless integration of various systems, including mainframe systems with contemporary technologies, automated vendor interfaces, and banking systems, to improve operational efficiency and compliance.
Financial and Performance Analysis: Advanced SQL-based systems for comprehensive financial and sales reporting and performance analysis across multiple retail locations and diverse industries.

Why Choose Data Key Design, Inc.?

At Data Key Design, Inc., we understand the critical role mainframe technologies play in the backbone of your business operations. Led by William Hicks and Thomas C. Conover, our team is committed to delivering innovative, reliable, and efficient mainframe solutions tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you're looking to modernize legacy systems, enhance data management practices, or develop new applications, we have the expertise and experience to help you achieve your goals.