Insert - Adding data

Enhanced Definition

In the mainframe context, "inserting" or "adding data" refers to the programmatic or utility-driven process of creating new records or entries within various data storage systems, such as sequential files, VSAM datasets, IBM Db2 for z/OS tables, or IMS database segments. This operation fundamentally expands the dataset or database by introducing new information.

Key Characteristics

- Record-Oriented Operations: Data insertion typically involves writing complete records or segments, adhering to predefined data structures (e.g., COBOL record layouts, Db2 table schemas, IMS DBDs).
- Programmatic Control: Performed using specific language constructs like COBOL WRITE statements, SQL INSERT statements, DL/I ISRT calls, or CICS EXEC CICS WRITE commands.
- Utility-Driven Insertion: Large-scale data loading can be achieved using z/OS utilities such as IEBGENER for sequential files, IDCAMS for VSAM, or DSNUTILB for Db2.
- Concurrency and Integrity: For shared databases (Db2, IMS), insertion operations are subject to transaction management, locking mechanisms, and referential integrity constraints to ensure data consistency.
- Performance Considerations: The efficiency of data insertion is crucial for batch processing and high-volume online transactions, often optimized through blocking factors, commit strategies, and indexing.