Workload Value
Which Power generation and configuration delivers the best value for your specific workload profile: small IBM i, mid-range IBM i, AIX, or mixed environments.
The Power Value Index scores generations in the abstract. Real value depends on matching a generation and configuration to your actual workload -- a small P05 IBM i shop and a mixed enterprise environment do not share the same best answer, even when they share the same PVI reference scores.
Value by workload profile
Recommended generation and sizing direction by workload profile
| Workload Profile | Best-Fit Direction | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Small IBM i (P05/P10, single partition) | Entry Power11 (new) or used Power10 entry config | Entry models are purpose-sized to stay inside the smallest tiers; used Power10 adds a genuine discount without meaningfully compromising fit. |
| Mid-range IBM i (P20, growth expected) | Power10 or Power11 mid-range scale-out | Growth headroom matters more here -- Power8/9's lower capacity ceiling risks a second migration soon after the first. |
| AIX-only or Linux-only | Any current-support generation; Power8/9 viable if support risk is acceptable | No IBM i software tier constraint, so the calculus shifts more toward raw performance-per-dollar and support runway. |
| Mixed IBM i plus AIX/Linux/VIOS | Power11 or Power10 entry-to-mid config | Partition flexibility benefits most from current-generation virtualization and I/O headroom. |
The sizing trap to avoid
The most common over-spend is buying scale-out headroom a small, stable IBM i workload will never use. Before configuring above the entry tier, confirm the growth is real and near-term -- see Configuration Efficiency for where added capacity stops paying for itself.
Use the Configuration Tool to get a generation recommendation weighted to your own workload size, budget priority, and hold period.