Z17

IBM

2025

Problem:




“The popular narrative that mainframe is archaic, legacy tech doesn’t reflect reality, as its strengths greatly benefit some of our most important modern systems.” Brent Ellis, Senior Analyst at Forrester

Insight:
Less tan 1% of enterprise data is used to train AI models.
The only way to maximize the value of AI in mission-critical workloads is to bring AI directly to the data.

Idea:
Z is the enterprise life force that puts AI at the core of your business so you can get the most out of your
data and achieve real value in real time.


Do more at the core.

IBM z17

DO MORE

AT THE CORE









WITH AI

ON Z

Campaign:

To challenge the outdated perception of the mainframe as legacy technology, the campaign positioned IBM z17 more like a luxury performance machine than a traditional enterprise system. The visual and narrative approach drew inspiration from high-end automotive launches—where precision engineering, power and design are celebrated.

The campaign highlighted the platform’s advanced capabilities through a series of 3D-rendered abstractions, translating complex technological features into striking visual expressions. These technical visuals created a sense of sophistication and innovation while making the system’s capabilities feel tangible and desirable.

Across every touchpoint—from the launch film and event experience to digital activations and the product guidebook—the creative direction elevated the category, giving the entire campaign a premium, high-performance aesthetic that set it apart from typical mainframe communications.

Photography & Renders

The visual system explored the machine with an expressive, almost cinematic approach. Dramatic lighting, strong contrast and dark environments emphasized the precision and power of the technology.

Detailed renders revealed the internal architecture of the system, showcasing the “guts” of the machine as a form of engineered beauty.

Complementing this, the photography introduced a human presence—bringing scale, warmth and a sense of connection between people and the technology at the core of their business.

creative direction: pablo de vivo
acd: gustavo vasconcelos, geoff schaeffer, Ellice Uffer, Colin Ilsley
Photography direction: Reda Charafeddine, Natalie Matutschovsky
executive producer: hakimah shah
producer: kaetie turner
strategy: stephen leps, rachel zarell, steve gessner, adriana orivas, Carlos ruiz
engagement partner: Chad Oliver


Vendors:
3D Animation: Tendril
3D Stills: Tendril, Haw-lin
Photographer:

Vendors:
3D Animation: Tendril
3D Stills: Tendril, Haw-lin
Photographer: