Human - Person using system

Key Characteristics

• • Role-Based Interaction: Humans interact with the mainframe based on their assigned roles (e.g., system programmer, operator, developer, end-user), each with specific permissions and access levels managed by security systems like RACF.
  • Interface Dependency: Interaction is typically through specialized interfaces such as 3270 terminal emulators (for TSO/ISPF or CICS), batch job submission (via JCL), or modern web-based front-ends that connect to mainframe applications via middleware.
  • Specialized Skillset: Effective interaction often requires knowledge of mainframe-specific tools, commands (e.g., TSO commands, JCL syntax), and operational procedures unique to the z/OS environment.
  • Auditable Actions: All significant human interactions, particularly those involving system changes, data access, or resource manipulation, are typically logged and auditable for security, compliance, and problem determination purposes.
  • Diverse Interaction Modes: Humans can interact interactively (e.g., TSO/ISPF sessions, CICS transactions), indirectly (e.g., submitting batch jobs for execution), or through modern APIs and integration layers.

Use Cases

• • System Administration: A system programmer uses TSO/ISPF to configure z/OS, manage system resources, install software, and troubleshoot system issues.
  • Application Development: A COBOL developer writes, compiles, and tests programs using ISPF editors, submits JCL for batch compilation and execution, and debugs code.
  • Operations Monitoring: A mainframe operator monitors system health, responds to console messages, and initiates or terminates tasks using operator commands via a system console.
  • End-User Transaction Processing: A bank teller uses a CICS application via a 3270 terminal emulator to process customer transactions, such as account inquiries or deposits.
  • Data Management: A database administrator (DBA) uses DB2 or IMS utilities, often via JCL or TSO, to manage databases, perform backups, and monitor performance.

Related Concepts