Console Group - Related operator consoles

Enhanced Definition

A console group in z/OS is a logical collection of operator consoles, defined to facilitate message routing, command processing, and operator workload management. It allows system administrators to direct specific system messages and commands to a designated set of consoles, rather than broadcasting them to all active consoles.

Key Characteristics

- Logical Grouping: Console groups are not physical entities but software-defined associations of console IDs (e.g., CONSOLE01, CONSOLE02).
- Message Routing: Messages are routed to specific console groups based on their routing codes (ROUTCODE) and descriptor codes (DESC), which are assigned during message definition.
- Command Scope: Commands issued from a console within a group can be configured to have a specific scope, affecting only resources or components relevant to that group.
- Workload Management: They enable the distribution of operator responsibilities by ensuring that relevant messages reach the appropriate operational teams (e.g., DBAs, network specialists).
- Dynamic Definition: Console groups can be defined and modified dynamically using VARY CN commands or persistently through CONSOLxx parmlib members.
- Multiple Group Membership: A single operator console can be a member of multiple console groups simultaneously, allowing it to receive messages from various functional areas.

Use Cases

- Critical System Alerts: Routing high-priority messages (e.g., ABENDs, hardware errors, critical resource shortages) to a dedicated "Critical Operations" console group for immediate attention.
- Database Administration: Directing DB2 or IMS specific messages and commands to a console group managed by database administrators, separating them from general system messages.
- Network Operations: Assigning network-related messages (e.g., VTAM, TCP/IP activity, network device status) to a "Network Operations" console group.
- Application Support: Creating groups for specific application teams to monitor their application's messages, issue commands, and troubleshoot issues without seeing irrelevant system messages.
- Batch Processing Monitoring: Designating a console group to receive messages related to batch job starts, completions, and failures, allowing batch operators to manage job streams efficiently.

Related Concepts

Console groups are integral to z/OS Operator Services and System Message Processing. They work in conjunction with Routing Codes (ROUTCODE) and Descriptor Codes (DESC), which are assigned to messages to determine their destination. They are defined and managed via CONSOLxx parmlib members and VARY CN commands, influencing how operators interact with the Master Console and other Extended Consoles (EMCS). Effective use of console groups is crucial for an organized and responsive System Automation strategy.

Best Practices:

Functional Grouping: Design console groups based on functional responsibilities (e.g., DB2, CICS, Network, Batch, Critical Alerts) to ensure efficient message handling and operator focus.
Minimize Broadcasts: Avoid routing all messages to all consoles; leverage console groups to reduce message noise and improve operator productivity.
Use CONSOLxx for Persistence: Define console groups persistently in CONSOLxx parmlib members for consistent system startup and easier management across IPLs.
Regular Review and Update: Periodically review and update console group definitions and message routing to adapt to changing operational needs, new applications, and system configurations.
Redundancy and Backup: Ensure critical console groups have multiple consoles or operators assigned to prevent single points of failure in message monitoring and command issuance.