IMS Database Administrator

The learning streams here provide an overview of IBM Z mainframes and their components, and discusses key concepts of the z/OS operating system, including security, and how JES2 is used to process workloads.

Content then focuses on the use of TSO/ISPF and z/OS Explorer to access z/OS data. Background on the types of storage devices implemented in the mainframe environment are also covered, with training then progressing to JCL where basic statements used to construct a batch job are discussed, along with the use of procedures and symbols, working with VSAM, generation and tape data sets, as well as z/OS UNIX files. The use of SDSF to monitor batch job processing and output is also covered in detail, while extensive information on utilities such as IEBGENER, IEBCOPY, and IDCAMS is also presented. An overview on the use of SMP/E to install and managed z/OS system software is also discussed.

Introductory content relating to databases generally, and then IMS, is then presented.

The learning streams above address the advanced skills, knowledge, and practices dealing with products that a IMS Database Administrator will need to know about at some stage of their career. These focus on advanced IMS operations and programming, advanced problem identification and resolution of batch JCL, and use of managed file transfer practices.

The learning streams above provide content focussing on business-related information. This includes disaster recovery, where the IMS Database Administrator often plays a critical role in ensuring recoverability of business data, ensuring they comply with any regulatory requirements. This person also needs to understand how coaching and mentoring practices can be implemented to ensure they, and other staff, are trained to meet their full potential.

The learning streams here are not mandatory but help to provide a holistic view of the mainframe environment that the user is working in. For example, z/OS UNIX is available on a z/OS system, and use of z/VM and Linux operating systems is also likely, so knowledge in these areas is going to help the student at this level. Other topics such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, Containers, and Kubernetes provide an overview of various technologies available on the mainframe that your organization may be using. The cloud is playing an ever increasing role in Data Center processing so knowing how it works, its structure, and security configuration may also be of interest.