Enhanced

Enhanced Definition

In the context of IBM mainframe systems and z/OS, "enhanced" refers to a version of a software product, feature, or capability that has been improved, extended, or optimized beyond its previous iteration. These improvements typically deliver new functionalities, better performance, increased reliability, or stronger security. In the context of IBM mainframe systems and z/OS, "enhanced" refers to a feature, function, product, or capability that has been improved, upgraded, or extended with new functionalities, performance optimizations, or increased security compared to its previous version. It signifies an evolution or addition of value to an existing component or process within the mainframe ecosystem.

Key Characteristics

- New Functionality: Often introduces entirely new features or expands existing ones, providing more options or capabilities to users and applications within the z/OS environment.
- Performance Optimization: May include internal code changes, algorithm improvements, or resource management enhancements to achieve faster execution or reduced resource consumption (e.g., CPU cycles, I/O operations).
- Improved Reliability/Stability: Addresses known issues, strengthens error handling, or refines recovery mechanisms to make the component more robust and less prone to failures, critical for 24/7 mainframe operations.
- Enhanced Security: Incorporates new security protocols, stronger encryption, improved access controls, or better auditing capabilities to protect sensitive data and resources (e.g., RACF integration).
- Backward Compatibility (Often): While introducing new features, enhanced versions typically strive for backward compatibility to minimize disruption for existing COBOL, PL/I, or Assembler applications, though new syntax or parameters might be introduced.

Use Cases

- z/OS Releases: Each new release of z/OS (e.g., z/OS V2R5) brings "enhanced" capabilities across various system components like WLM, SMF, JES, and security services (e.g., z/OSMF enhancements).
- Middleware Updates: New versions of middleware like CICS, DB2, or IMS frequently include "enhanced" transaction processing, database management, or message queuing features (e.g., DB2 stored procedure enhancements).
- Compiler Enhancements: Updates to COBOL or PL/I compilers might offer "enhanced" optimization techniques, new language features (e.g., COBOL 2002 standard features), or improved diagnostics.
- Utility Programs: System utilities (e.g., DFSORT, IDCAMS) often receive "enhancements" to improve sorting algorithms, data manipulation, or catalog management capabilities.
- Hardware Exploitation: Software enhancements are often released to leverage new capabilities of underlying IBM Z hardware, such as new instruction sets or cryptographic features.

Related Concepts

"Enhanced" is closely related to versioning and product lifecycle management on the mainframe, signifying a progression from an older release. It often results from APARs (Authorized Program Analysis Reports) and PTFs (Program Temporary Fixes) that deliver fixes and new functions. It underpins the concept of continuous improvement and the need for system upgrades to leverage the latest capabilities and maintain currency, often requiring changes to JCL or system parameters.

Best Practices:

Thorough Testing: Always conduct comprehensive testing in a non-production environment (e.g., a dedicated LPAR) to validate the stability, functionality, and performance of any "enhanced" component before deploying to production.
Review Documentation: Carefully read the IBM Program Directory, product manuals, and "What's New" guides for new features, changed behaviors, and any migration considerations associated with the enhancement.
Performance Baselines: Establish performance baselines before applying enhancements to effectively measure and confirm expected performance improvements or identify regressions in key metrics like CPU