Implement
In the mainframe context, "implement" refers to the comprehensive process of developing, configuring, deploying, and making a software solution, system component, or change operational within the z/OS environment. It encompasses the entire lifecycle from initial design and coding to testing, installation, and production readiness, ensuring the solution functions as intended.
Key Characteristics
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- Lifecycle-Oriented: Typically follows a structured System Development Life Cycle (SDLC), moving through design, coding, testing, and deployment phases.
- Resource Definition: Often involves defining or modifying system resources such as CICS transactions, DB2 tables, IMS databases, or security profiles (RACF).
- JCL-Driven: Heavily reliant on Job Control Language (JCL) for compiling, linking, executing programs, running utilities, and managing datasets.
- Staged Deployment: Implementations are usually performed in controlled stages (e.g., development, test, QA, production) to minimize risk.
- Version Control: Requires robust version control mechanisms for source code, JCL, and configuration files to track changes and facilitate rollbacks.
- Dependency Management: Involves identifying and managing dependencies on other system components, libraries, or data.
Use Cases
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- New Application Deployment: Implementing a new COBOL batch application, a CICS online transaction processing system, or an IMS database application.
- System Software Upgrade: Implementing a new version or release of core system software like z/OS, DB2, CICS, IMS, or third-party utilities.
- Configuration Changes: Implementing changes to system parameters (e.g.,
SYS1.PARMLIB), network definitions (VTAM), or security rules (RACF). - Maintenance and Enhancements: Implementing bug fixes, performance improvements, or new features for existing mainframe applications.
- Data Migration/Transformation: Implementing processes to migrate data between different database systems or transform data formats using batch utilities or custom programs.
Related Concepts
Implementation is a critical phase within the broader System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and is closely governed by Change Management processes and tools (e.g., CA Endevor, IBM Change Man). It relies heavily on JCL for orchestrating tasks and interacting with the z/OS operating system. Successful implementation often requires collaboration between Application Developers (coding), System Programmers (configuring infrastructure), and Operations Teams (deployment and monitoring).
- Automate Deployment: Utilize automated deployment tools and scripts (where available) to ensure consistency, reduce manual errors, and accelerate the implementation process.
- Thorough Testing: Conduct comprehensive unit, integration, system, and user acceptance testing in dedicated test environments before moving to production.
- Detailed Documentation: Maintain clear and up-to-date documentation for all implemented components, including design specifications, JCL procedures, and operational instructions.
- Robust Backout Plan: Always prepare and test a detailed backout plan to revert changes quickly and safely in case of unforeseen issues during or after implementation.
- Phased Rollout: For critical or large-scale changes, consider a phased rollout or pilot implementation to a subset of users or systems before full production deployment.
- Security Review: Ensure all implemented components adhere to organizational security policies and undergo a security review to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.