IBM Mainframe

Integrations for IBM z/OS Job Scheduler

Bring mainframe workloads into enterprise processes

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Integrate mainframe batch processing into enterprise workflows

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Reduce mainframe operating costs by moving scheduling to Tidal

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Apply advanced scheduling functionality to z/OS jobs

IBM Z Workload Scheduler

Formerly known as IBM Workload Scheduler for z/OS, IBM Z Workload Scheduler offers automation features to help simplify tasks for schedulers and system administrators when compared to your current plan. It includes ready-to-use packages like IBM Workload Automation Console and IBM Z Workload Automation Agent. It also:

  • Enables end-to-end scheduling with fault tolerance capabilities by configuring IBM Workload Scheduler for z/OS and IBM Workload Scheduler
  • Can assign a job to a scheduling environment to ensure it executes on specific members in the MAS
  • Function with JCL (Job Control Language), IBM’s mainframe scripting language for the z/OS operating system
  • Harness initialization statements that provide values or settings for specific resources or system components required to execute a job step
  • Schedule and manage job types such as batch jobs, JCL jobs, system utility jobs, manage data sets, input arrival, data transfers, and more

Offload Mainframe Scheduling

Managing z/OS mainframe processes is a business-critical effort. As organizations incorporate a growing number of applications on a range of distributed devices, it’s important to manage them centrally and avoid islands of automation. When you offload scheduling from the mainframe, you can reduce your mainframe operating costs.

With Tidal’s z/OS integration, mainframe job scheduling in JES can be orchestrated within overall business processes for end-to-end management and automation. Once integrated, use the Tidal platform to:

  • Submit and monitor mainframe jobs
  • Execute console commands (e.g., create a new file partition)
  • Create file dependencies
  • Monitor file events
  • Schedule batch jobs time-and event-based workloads

How It Works

Mainframe diagram

Tidal, the IBM Z/OS Job Scheduler, manages job scheduling tasks within the z/OS environment with a wealth of customizations and integrations to enhance your capabilities.

  • Tidal provides a wide range of parameters and options to simplify the process of defining and managing job dependencies, submission, and execution.
  • Tidal offers a Dynamic Workload Console, a web-based dialog that provides administrators with real-time visibility to provide job tracking and identify critical paths within job streams.
  • Tidal incorporates fault tolerance capabilities to enhance the reliability and availability of job execution. It monitors job progress, captures system output (SYSOUT), and maintains a comprehensive job log that includes details such as return codes, error codes, and completion status.
  • Tidal supports sysplex environments, facilitating job execution across multiple system images.
  • Tidal leverages initialization statements to set values and configurations specific to job execution. Variable tables enable definition and variable substitution within job steps, enhancing flexibility and customization.
  • Tidal supports users specifying workstation names and time zones as well as TSO access to coordinate global teams.
  • Tidal supports tailoring interfaces, defining job definitions, and configuring subsystem names and options (OPCOPTS) for a customized experience, all within user-friendly ISPFpanels.

WIth its extensive capabilities and customization, Tidal empowers organizations to streamline operations, ensure reliable job execution, and maximize productivity in the z/OS environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I still use the Dynamic Workload Console when I integrate IBM Z/OS Job Scheduler with Tidal?

    Even when you have integrated with Tidal, your teams will still be able to use the Dynamic Workload Console to monitor job submission, job runs, job tracking, operation status, started tasks, and more within IBM Z/OS Job Scheduler. The Tidal dashboard will allow you to do all these things for all workloads running across your enterprise.

    Get started with Tidal Automation today and streamline your job scheduling.

  • Can I use JCL with Tidal?

    While using Tidal to manage your workload automation will affect changes in IBM Workload Manager (WLM), the Tidal interface does not use JCL. If your teams wish to use JCL and JCL variables to define execution or allocation parameters, manage data sets with DDNAME, or use JCL error handling protocols, they can still do so.

    Learn how Tidal can automate your Mainframe workload.

  • How does Tidal handle automatic recovery when a job has ended in error?

    Tidal incorporates automatic recovery mechanisms to address job failures. When a job ends in error, Tidal identifies the issue by examining the job log, message log, and return codes. It uses identifier information, such as the job name and job card, to pinpoint the error's source. Tidal then attempts to recover by applying predefined actions or executing error-handling procedures specified in the job definitions. This automatic recovery feature minimizes manual intervention and optimizes job execution within the z/OS system.

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  • How can I troubleshoot issues with Tidal in my z/OS system?

    Troubleshooting Tidal involves several steps. First, check the message log for any error codes or messages that may indicate the source of the problem. Use Tidal's domain manager and programming interface to identify and address issues related to job scheduling. If necessary, specify parameters and options using Tidal's z-centric capabilities to fine-tune its behavior. Additionally, refer to IBM's Authorized Program Analysis Reports (APARs) for fixes to software defects.

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