Mastering Modern Mainframe Development with IBM COBOL
You’re not behind. But you’re also not ahead. While legacy systems still power 70% of global financial transactions, innovation is accelerating into mainframe environments. The window to master IBM COBOL with modern tooling, integration, and architecture is open - but narrowing fast. If you're relying on outdated procedural knowledge or fragmented online resources, you're at risk. Decision-makers no longer view COBOL as maintenance work - they see it as mission-critical infrastructure requiring senior-level expertise in performance, security, and integration. Without structured mastery, you're invisible in promotion cycles and invisible to high-impact teams. Mastering Modern Mainframe Development with IBM COBOL is not a refresher. It’s a complete transformation. This course is engineered to take you from familiar-with-COBOL to an authoritative, board-ready mainframe developer in under 12 weeks, with a production-grade portfolio and global certification. One learner, Priya M., senior analyst at a Tier 1 insurance provider, used this material to lead a core policy engine refactor - reducing batch processing time by 42%, earning a 35% raise, and securing a seat on her company’s modernisation steering committee. She didn’t just learn syntax - she learned how to own the core system. This isn’t about legacy code. It’s about strategic ownership. You’ll gain fluency in hybrid integration, DevOps pipelines for CICS, and secure service exposure via REST APIs - exactly what audit firms, banks, and insurers are demanding now. Here’s how this course is structured to help you get there.Course Format & Delivery Details Immediate, Lifetime Access - Learn at Your Own Pace
This is a self-paced, on-demand learning experience with no fixed dates, attendance requirements, or time zone dependencies. You begin the moment you're ready, progress as your schedule allows, and retain access for life - including all future updates at no additional cost. Most learners complete the core curriculum in 8–12 weeks while working full-time, with measurable results often appearing within the first 14 days. By week 3, you will have written, compiled, and deployed your first modernised COBOL service on a simulated enterprise z/OS environment. Global, Mobile-Friendly Access with Full Support
The entire course is accessible 24/7 from any device, with responsive formatting that works seamlessly on desktop, tablet, and mobile. You can continue learning during commutes, between meetings, or during deep work sessions. You receive direct instructor guidance via structured feedback loops, milestone assessments, and curated solution reviews. This is not an automated system - real experts evaluate your progress and provide actionable insights to accelerate your development. Certification with Global Recognition
Upon completion, you earn a verified Certificate of Completion issued by The Art of Service, an internationally recognised accreditation body trusted by Fortune 500 teams, government agencies, and global consultancies. This certificate validates your mastery of modern mainframe development and is shareable on LinkedIn, resumes, and internal promotion portfolios. No Risk, No Hidden Fees, Full Transparency
Pricing is straightforward with no recurring charges, hidden fees, or upsells. One payment grants full access - forever. The course accepts Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal, with secure checkout and enterprise billing options available. We back this course with a strong satisfaction guarantee: if you follow the curriculum, complete the exercises, and find it does not meet your expectations, you are fully refunded. Your risk is zero - your upside is career transformation. Enrollment Process: Clear, Secure, and Support-Backed
After enrollment, you receive a confirmation email. Shortly afterward, a second email delivers your access credentials and onboarding guide. Delivery timing is handled securely and systematically - no instant access is implied, but full readiness is ensured before you begin. This Works Even If…
- You haven’t touched COBOL in over a decade
- You work in a non-mainframe technology stack but need to integrate with core banking systems
- You’re transitioning from Java or .NET and need to understand procedural logic in high-availability contexts
- Your organisation is starting a modernisation initiative and you need to speak the language of the core
Julien T., a systems architect in Geneva, used this program to bridge his cloud-native background with his bank’s z/OS infrastructure. Within two months, he led the containerisation of a COBOL-based claims processor using IBM Wazi, earning recognition at the executive level. This course is built for real-world applicability. It works because it’s not theoretical - it’s practice-intensive, outcome-driven, and engineered for enterprise relevance. The structure eliminates ambiguity, the support eliminates isolation, and the certification eliminates doubt.
Module 1: Foundations of Modern Mainframe Architecture - Understanding the role of mainframes in today's hybrid IT ecosystems
- z/OS architecture: overview of address spaces, data spaces, and system regions
- Key differences between distributed systems and mainframe environments
- Overview of IBM Z hardware and logical partitioning (LPAR)
- z/OS command structure and console interaction fundamentals
- Navigating TSO/E and ISPF interfaces with precision
- Introduction to JCL: purpose, syntax, and job structure
- Understanding dataset types: PDS, PS, VSAM, and GDGs
- Data set naming conventions and naming standards in enterprise
- Using ISPF panels for efficient file and dataset management
Module 2: IBM COBOL Syntax and Core Language Mastery - COBOL program structure: Identification, Environment, Data, and Procedure Divisions
- Coding standards and enterprise-level formatting requirements
- Defining variables with PIC clauses and level numbers
- Understanding USAGE clauses: DISPLAY, COMP, COMP-3, and BINARY
- Data type mapping between COBOL and modern data formats
- Working with alphanumeric, numeric, and alphabetic data fields
- Table handling with OCCURS and nested table structures
- Renaming variables using RENAMES clause
- USAGE POINTER and linkage to system-level functions
- REDEFINES clause for memory-efficient variable overlays
- Error handling in data definition and conversion scenarios
- Debugging common syntax and compilation issues
Module 3: JCL and Batch Processing in Enterprise Contexts - Writing robust JCL with proper step sequencing and dependencies
- Understanding EXEC, DD, and PROC statements in depth
- Dataset allocation: DISP parameters and their business implications
- Using symbolic parameters for portable and reusable JCL
- Conditional execution with COND and IF-THEN-ELSE constructs
- Creating and managing procedure libraries (PROCLIB)
- Understanding cataloged and in-stream procedures
- Handling SYSOUT classes and spool management
- Debugging JCL with MAXCC and abend codes
- Integrating batch jobs with scheduling systems like CA-7 or Control-M
- Best practices for secure and auditable batch workflows
- Automating job restart and recovery scenarios
Module 4: Data Access and VSAM Mastery - VSAM architecture: KSDS, ESDS, RRDS, and their use cases
- Defining VSAM datasets using IDCAMS
- Reading and writing VSAM files using COBOL SELECT and ACCESS MODE
- Dynamic vs static record access in transactional processing
- Using START, READ, WRITE, REWRITE, and DELETE statements effectively
- Handling file status codes and translating abends to root causes
- Working with alternate indexes and path definitions
- Performance tuning VSAM access with buffering and CI/CA splits
- Sharing VSAM datasets in CICS and batch contexts
- Data integrity and recovery in VSAM environments
- Migration strategies from flat files to VSAM structures
Module 5: CICS Transaction Server Fundamentals - CICS architecture: regions, tasks, and transaction scheduling
- Understanding CICS commands: EXEC CICS syntax and conventions
- Linking COBOL programs using XCTL and LINK
- Handling COMMAREA and DTAs for inter-program communication
- Designing reentrant and thread-safe COBOL programs
- Using CICS built-in functions: SEND MAP, RECEIVE MAP, ASKTIME
- Map and mapset development with BMS macros
- Error trapping with HANDLE CONDITION and IGNORE CONDITION
- Using TSQs and TDQs for transient data queues
- Managing CICS storage: GETMAIN, FREEMAIN, and storage protection
- Integrating COBOL with CICS temporary storage
- Debugging CICS applications using CEDF and logs
Module 6: DB2 for z/OS Integration with COBOL - DB2 on z/OS: architecture and integration points
- Embedding SQL in COBOL using EXEC SQL statements
- Declaring host variables and SQLCA handling
- Using SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE in COBOL
- Handling cursors: DECLARE, OPEN, FETCH, CLOSE
- Managing null indicators and data type compatibility
- Precompilation and bind process for DB2 programs
- Isolation levels and their impact on application logic
- Dynamic vs static SQL: performance and maintainability trade-offs
- Error handling with SQLCODE and SQLSTATE
- Optimising SQL access paths using EXPLAIN and plan tables
- Batch reporting with COBOL-DB2 hybrid programs
Module 7: Modernisation Principles and Container Integration - Overview of IBM Z modernisation: from monolith to hybrid
- Using IBM Wazi to run z/OS workloads in containers
- Deploying COBOL applications in Kubernetes environments
- Refactoring legacy code for container compatibility
- State management in containerised mainframe applications
- Networking and service discovery for COBOL microservices
- Managing configuration and secrets in modern deployments
- Integrating containerised COBOL with CI/CD pipelines
- Monitoring and logging strategies for hybrid systems
- Performance benchmarking in container vs native z/OS
Module 8: REST and API Enablement for COBOL Systems - Principles of exposing COBOL logic as RESTful services
- Using IBM Z Application Program Interface (z/OS Connect)
- Defining API providers and service operations
- Mapping CICS transactions to REST endpoints
- Transforming COBOL data to JSON and XML formats
- Handling request routing and parameter mapping
- Security: OAuth, JWT, and TLS integration
- Testing APIs with Postman and Swagger
- Rate limiting, caching, and documentation generation
- Monitoring API usage and performance
- Versioning strategies for long-lived COBOL services
- Use case: exposing a claims validation service to mobile apps
Module 9: DevOps and CI/CD for Mainframe Environments - Mainframe DevOps: overcoming cultural and technical barriers
- Using IBM UrbanCode Deploy for mainframe automation
- Integrating COBOL with Jenkins pipelines
- Source control best practices using Git with mainframe datasets
- Synchronising PDS members with GitHub repositories
- Automated compile, link, and deploy workflows
- Unit testing COBOL with tools like Micro Focus Enterprise Test Server
- Static code analysis and SonarQube integration
- Managing build artifacts and deployment manifests
- Setting up automated regression testing
- Rollback and canary deployment patterns
- Metrics, logging, and audit trails in automated pipelines
Module 10: Modern COBOL Tooling and Development Workflows - Using IBM Developer for z/OS (formerly RDz) effectively
- Configuring IDEs for modern COBOL development
- Syntax highlighting, code templates, and snippets
- Navigating large COBOL codebases with dependency maps
- Using COBOL copybooks and include management
- Refactoring legacy code with modern standards
- Code documentation and inline commenting strategies
- Integrating linters and formatter tools
- Debugging techniques using interactive debuggers
- Leveraging code coverage and profiling tools
- Collaboration workflows for distributed mainframe teams
- Pair programming and code review in COBOL environments
Module 11: Performance Optimisation and Tuning - Identifying performance bottlenecks in COBOL programs
- Analysing CPU usage and I/O patterns
- Optimising loop structures and decision logic
- Reducing unnecessary file opens and closes
- Using compiler options for performance: OPT(2), RMODE, etc.
- Memory management: stack vs heap usage in COBOL
- Analysing AMODE and RMODE compatibility issues
- Performance monitoring with RMF and SMF data
- Tuning VSAM access with buffer pools and CI size
- CICS transaction throughput optimisation
- Reducing enclave and cross-memory overhead
- Batch window compression techniques
Module 12: Security and Compliance in COBOL Applications - z/OS security model: RACF, ACF2, and Top Secret overview
- Securing CICS resources with resource classes
- Protecting VSAM datasets with dataset-level security
- Authentication and authorisation in transaction flows
- Handling PII and financial data in COBOL programs
- GDPR and CCPA compliance for legacy systems
- Secure coding practices: preventing buffer overflows
- Input validation and sanitisation in procedural code
- Encrypting data at rest and in transit
- Using ICSF for cryptographic services
- Audit trail generation and logging standards
- Penetration testing strategies for mainframe applications
Module 13: Problem Determination and Abend Resolution - Using SDSF to interpret system messages and logs
- Interpreting abend codes: S0C1, S0C4, S0C7, U4038, etc.
- Reading dump output using IPCS
- Using LE Diagnostic messages for COBOL errors
- Diagnosing storage violations and overlay issues
- Understanding DSA, TCB, and stack traces
- Linkage errors and program fetch issues
- Using traces in CICS and DB2 environments
- Reproducing and isolating intermittent failures
- Engaging IBM support with SYSUDUMP and SYSABEND
- Root cause analysis templates and documentation
- Creating runbooks for common failure scenarios
Module 14: Real-World Implementation Projects - Project 1: Modernise a legacy payroll batch process
- Design JCL with restart logic and error handling
- Refactor COBOL for maintainability and performance
- Replace flat files with VSAM datasets
- Integrate with DB2 for employee data lookup
- Project 2: Build a CICS transaction for policy lookup
- Create map screens using BMS
- Implement input validation and error messages
- Add audit logging and security checks
- Expose the transaction as a REST API using z/OS Connect
- Deploy to a test region and verify end-to-end flow
- Project 3: Containerise a claims processing module
- Use IBM Wazi to package COBOL logic
- Deploy to a Kubernetes test cluster
- Set up CI/CD using Jenkins and Git
- Write unit and integration tests
- Create monitoring dashboards
- Document the full deployment runbook
- Project 4: Lead a DevOps transformation scenario
- Assess legacy deployment risks
- Design secure and auditable pipelines
- Train team members on modern tooling
Module 15: Career Advancement and Certification Preparation - Structuring your modern mainframe portfolio for impact
- Documenting projects with executive summaries
- Writing a certification-ready case study
- Preparing your resume for COBOL modernisation roles
- Using LinkedIn to showcase your transformation story
- Networking within IBM Z and mainframe communities
- Transitioning to architecture, leadership, or consulting
- Interview preparation for senior mainframe roles
- Common technical and behavioural questions
- Presenting your work to non-technical stakeholders
- Understanding job market demand and salary benchmarks
- Planning your next certification path
- How to leverage your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Updating your professional profiles with verified credentials
- Maintaining skills with lifelong access and updates
- Understanding the role of mainframes in today's hybrid IT ecosystems
- z/OS architecture: overview of address spaces, data spaces, and system regions
- Key differences between distributed systems and mainframe environments
- Overview of IBM Z hardware and logical partitioning (LPAR)
- z/OS command structure and console interaction fundamentals
- Navigating TSO/E and ISPF interfaces with precision
- Introduction to JCL: purpose, syntax, and job structure
- Understanding dataset types: PDS, PS, VSAM, and GDGs
- Data set naming conventions and naming standards in enterprise
- Using ISPF panels for efficient file and dataset management
Module 2: IBM COBOL Syntax and Core Language Mastery - COBOL program structure: Identification, Environment, Data, and Procedure Divisions
- Coding standards and enterprise-level formatting requirements
- Defining variables with PIC clauses and level numbers
- Understanding USAGE clauses: DISPLAY, COMP, COMP-3, and BINARY
- Data type mapping between COBOL and modern data formats
- Working with alphanumeric, numeric, and alphabetic data fields
- Table handling with OCCURS and nested table structures
- Renaming variables using RENAMES clause
- USAGE POINTER and linkage to system-level functions
- REDEFINES clause for memory-efficient variable overlays
- Error handling in data definition and conversion scenarios
- Debugging common syntax and compilation issues
Module 3: JCL and Batch Processing in Enterprise Contexts - Writing robust JCL with proper step sequencing and dependencies
- Understanding EXEC, DD, and PROC statements in depth
- Dataset allocation: DISP parameters and their business implications
- Using symbolic parameters for portable and reusable JCL
- Conditional execution with COND and IF-THEN-ELSE constructs
- Creating and managing procedure libraries (PROCLIB)
- Understanding cataloged and in-stream procedures
- Handling SYSOUT classes and spool management
- Debugging JCL with MAXCC and abend codes
- Integrating batch jobs with scheduling systems like CA-7 or Control-M
- Best practices for secure and auditable batch workflows
- Automating job restart and recovery scenarios
Module 4: Data Access and VSAM Mastery - VSAM architecture: KSDS, ESDS, RRDS, and their use cases
- Defining VSAM datasets using IDCAMS
- Reading and writing VSAM files using COBOL SELECT and ACCESS MODE
- Dynamic vs static record access in transactional processing
- Using START, READ, WRITE, REWRITE, and DELETE statements effectively
- Handling file status codes and translating abends to root causes
- Working with alternate indexes and path definitions
- Performance tuning VSAM access with buffering and CI/CA splits
- Sharing VSAM datasets in CICS and batch contexts
- Data integrity and recovery in VSAM environments
- Migration strategies from flat files to VSAM structures
Module 5: CICS Transaction Server Fundamentals - CICS architecture: regions, tasks, and transaction scheduling
- Understanding CICS commands: EXEC CICS syntax and conventions
- Linking COBOL programs using XCTL and LINK
- Handling COMMAREA and DTAs for inter-program communication
- Designing reentrant and thread-safe COBOL programs
- Using CICS built-in functions: SEND MAP, RECEIVE MAP, ASKTIME
- Map and mapset development with BMS macros
- Error trapping with HANDLE CONDITION and IGNORE CONDITION
- Using TSQs and TDQs for transient data queues
- Managing CICS storage: GETMAIN, FREEMAIN, and storage protection
- Integrating COBOL with CICS temporary storage
- Debugging CICS applications using CEDF and logs
Module 6: DB2 for z/OS Integration with COBOL - DB2 on z/OS: architecture and integration points
- Embedding SQL in COBOL using EXEC SQL statements
- Declaring host variables and SQLCA handling
- Using SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE in COBOL
- Handling cursors: DECLARE, OPEN, FETCH, CLOSE
- Managing null indicators and data type compatibility
- Precompilation and bind process for DB2 programs
- Isolation levels and their impact on application logic
- Dynamic vs static SQL: performance and maintainability trade-offs
- Error handling with SQLCODE and SQLSTATE
- Optimising SQL access paths using EXPLAIN and plan tables
- Batch reporting with COBOL-DB2 hybrid programs
Module 7: Modernisation Principles and Container Integration - Overview of IBM Z modernisation: from monolith to hybrid
- Using IBM Wazi to run z/OS workloads in containers
- Deploying COBOL applications in Kubernetes environments
- Refactoring legacy code for container compatibility
- State management in containerised mainframe applications
- Networking and service discovery for COBOL microservices
- Managing configuration and secrets in modern deployments
- Integrating containerised COBOL with CI/CD pipelines
- Monitoring and logging strategies for hybrid systems
- Performance benchmarking in container vs native z/OS
Module 8: REST and API Enablement for COBOL Systems - Principles of exposing COBOL logic as RESTful services
- Using IBM Z Application Program Interface (z/OS Connect)
- Defining API providers and service operations
- Mapping CICS transactions to REST endpoints
- Transforming COBOL data to JSON and XML formats
- Handling request routing and parameter mapping
- Security: OAuth, JWT, and TLS integration
- Testing APIs with Postman and Swagger
- Rate limiting, caching, and documentation generation
- Monitoring API usage and performance
- Versioning strategies for long-lived COBOL services
- Use case: exposing a claims validation service to mobile apps
Module 9: DevOps and CI/CD for Mainframe Environments - Mainframe DevOps: overcoming cultural and technical barriers
- Using IBM UrbanCode Deploy for mainframe automation
- Integrating COBOL with Jenkins pipelines
- Source control best practices using Git with mainframe datasets
- Synchronising PDS members with GitHub repositories
- Automated compile, link, and deploy workflows
- Unit testing COBOL with tools like Micro Focus Enterprise Test Server
- Static code analysis and SonarQube integration
- Managing build artifacts and deployment manifests
- Setting up automated regression testing
- Rollback and canary deployment patterns
- Metrics, logging, and audit trails in automated pipelines
Module 10: Modern COBOL Tooling and Development Workflows - Using IBM Developer for z/OS (formerly RDz) effectively
- Configuring IDEs for modern COBOL development
- Syntax highlighting, code templates, and snippets
- Navigating large COBOL codebases with dependency maps
- Using COBOL copybooks and include management
- Refactoring legacy code with modern standards
- Code documentation and inline commenting strategies
- Integrating linters and formatter tools
- Debugging techniques using interactive debuggers
- Leveraging code coverage and profiling tools
- Collaboration workflows for distributed mainframe teams
- Pair programming and code review in COBOL environments
Module 11: Performance Optimisation and Tuning - Identifying performance bottlenecks in COBOL programs
- Analysing CPU usage and I/O patterns
- Optimising loop structures and decision logic
- Reducing unnecessary file opens and closes
- Using compiler options for performance: OPT(2), RMODE, etc.
- Memory management: stack vs heap usage in COBOL
- Analysing AMODE and RMODE compatibility issues
- Performance monitoring with RMF and SMF data
- Tuning VSAM access with buffer pools and CI size
- CICS transaction throughput optimisation
- Reducing enclave and cross-memory overhead
- Batch window compression techniques
Module 12: Security and Compliance in COBOL Applications - z/OS security model: RACF, ACF2, and Top Secret overview
- Securing CICS resources with resource classes
- Protecting VSAM datasets with dataset-level security
- Authentication and authorisation in transaction flows
- Handling PII and financial data in COBOL programs
- GDPR and CCPA compliance for legacy systems
- Secure coding practices: preventing buffer overflows
- Input validation and sanitisation in procedural code
- Encrypting data at rest and in transit
- Using ICSF for cryptographic services
- Audit trail generation and logging standards
- Penetration testing strategies for mainframe applications
Module 13: Problem Determination and Abend Resolution - Using SDSF to interpret system messages and logs
- Interpreting abend codes: S0C1, S0C4, S0C7, U4038, etc.
- Reading dump output using IPCS
- Using LE Diagnostic messages for COBOL errors
- Diagnosing storage violations and overlay issues
- Understanding DSA, TCB, and stack traces
- Linkage errors and program fetch issues
- Using traces in CICS and DB2 environments
- Reproducing and isolating intermittent failures
- Engaging IBM support with SYSUDUMP and SYSABEND
- Root cause analysis templates and documentation
- Creating runbooks for common failure scenarios
Module 14: Real-World Implementation Projects - Project 1: Modernise a legacy payroll batch process
- Design JCL with restart logic and error handling
- Refactor COBOL for maintainability and performance
- Replace flat files with VSAM datasets
- Integrate with DB2 for employee data lookup
- Project 2: Build a CICS transaction for policy lookup
- Create map screens using BMS
- Implement input validation and error messages
- Add audit logging and security checks
- Expose the transaction as a REST API using z/OS Connect
- Deploy to a test region and verify end-to-end flow
- Project 3: Containerise a claims processing module
- Use IBM Wazi to package COBOL logic
- Deploy to a Kubernetes test cluster
- Set up CI/CD using Jenkins and Git
- Write unit and integration tests
- Create monitoring dashboards
- Document the full deployment runbook
- Project 4: Lead a DevOps transformation scenario
- Assess legacy deployment risks
- Design secure and auditable pipelines
- Train team members on modern tooling
Module 15: Career Advancement and Certification Preparation - Structuring your modern mainframe portfolio for impact
- Documenting projects with executive summaries
- Writing a certification-ready case study
- Preparing your resume for COBOL modernisation roles
- Using LinkedIn to showcase your transformation story
- Networking within IBM Z and mainframe communities
- Transitioning to architecture, leadership, or consulting
- Interview preparation for senior mainframe roles
- Common technical and behavioural questions
- Presenting your work to non-technical stakeholders
- Understanding job market demand and salary benchmarks
- Planning your next certification path
- How to leverage your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Updating your professional profiles with verified credentials
- Maintaining skills with lifelong access and updates
- Writing robust JCL with proper step sequencing and dependencies
- Understanding EXEC, DD, and PROC statements in depth
- Dataset allocation: DISP parameters and their business implications
- Using symbolic parameters for portable and reusable JCL
- Conditional execution with COND and IF-THEN-ELSE constructs
- Creating and managing procedure libraries (PROCLIB)
- Understanding cataloged and in-stream procedures
- Handling SYSOUT classes and spool management
- Debugging JCL with MAXCC and abend codes
- Integrating batch jobs with scheduling systems like CA-7 or Control-M
- Best practices for secure and auditable batch workflows
- Automating job restart and recovery scenarios
Module 4: Data Access and VSAM Mastery - VSAM architecture: KSDS, ESDS, RRDS, and their use cases
- Defining VSAM datasets using IDCAMS
- Reading and writing VSAM files using COBOL SELECT and ACCESS MODE
- Dynamic vs static record access in transactional processing
- Using START, READ, WRITE, REWRITE, and DELETE statements effectively
- Handling file status codes and translating abends to root causes
- Working with alternate indexes and path definitions
- Performance tuning VSAM access with buffering and CI/CA splits
- Sharing VSAM datasets in CICS and batch contexts
- Data integrity and recovery in VSAM environments
- Migration strategies from flat files to VSAM structures
Module 5: CICS Transaction Server Fundamentals - CICS architecture: regions, tasks, and transaction scheduling
- Understanding CICS commands: EXEC CICS syntax and conventions
- Linking COBOL programs using XCTL and LINK
- Handling COMMAREA and DTAs for inter-program communication
- Designing reentrant and thread-safe COBOL programs
- Using CICS built-in functions: SEND MAP, RECEIVE MAP, ASKTIME
- Map and mapset development with BMS macros
- Error trapping with HANDLE CONDITION and IGNORE CONDITION
- Using TSQs and TDQs for transient data queues
- Managing CICS storage: GETMAIN, FREEMAIN, and storage protection
- Integrating COBOL with CICS temporary storage
- Debugging CICS applications using CEDF and logs
Module 6: DB2 for z/OS Integration with COBOL - DB2 on z/OS: architecture and integration points
- Embedding SQL in COBOL using EXEC SQL statements
- Declaring host variables and SQLCA handling
- Using SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE in COBOL
- Handling cursors: DECLARE, OPEN, FETCH, CLOSE
- Managing null indicators and data type compatibility
- Precompilation and bind process for DB2 programs
- Isolation levels and their impact on application logic
- Dynamic vs static SQL: performance and maintainability trade-offs
- Error handling with SQLCODE and SQLSTATE
- Optimising SQL access paths using EXPLAIN and plan tables
- Batch reporting with COBOL-DB2 hybrid programs
Module 7: Modernisation Principles and Container Integration - Overview of IBM Z modernisation: from monolith to hybrid
- Using IBM Wazi to run z/OS workloads in containers
- Deploying COBOL applications in Kubernetes environments
- Refactoring legacy code for container compatibility
- State management in containerised mainframe applications
- Networking and service discovery for COBOL microservices
- Managing configuration and secrets in modern deployments
- Integrating containerised COBOL with CI/CD pipelines
- Monitoring and logging strategies for hybrid systems
- Performance benchmarking in container vs native z/OS
Module 8: REST and API Enablement for COBOL Systems - Principles of exposing COBOL logic as RESTful services
- Using IBM Z Application Program Interface (z/OS Connect)
- Defining API providers and service operations
- Mapping CICS transactions to REST endpoints
- Transforming COBOL data to JSON and XML formats
- Handling request routing and parameter mapping
- Security: OAuth, JWT, and TLS integration
- Testing APIs with Postman and Swagger
- Rate limiting, caching, and documentation generation
- Monitoring API usage and performance
- Versioning strategies for long-lived COBOL services
- Use case: exposing a claims validation service to mobile apps
Module 9: DevOps and CI/CD for Mainframe Environments - Mainframe DevOps: overcoming cultural and technical barriers
- Using IBM UrbanCode Deploy for mainframe automation
- Integrating COBOL with Jenkins pipelines
- Source control best practices using Git with mainframe datasets
- Synchronising PDS members with GitHub repositories
- Automated compile, link, and deploy workflows
- Unit testing COBOL with tools like Micro Focus Enterprise Test Server
- Static code analysis and SonarQube integration
- Managing build artifacts and deployment manifests
- Setting up automated regression testing
- Rollback and canary deployment patterns
- Metrics, logging, and audit trails in automated pipelines
Module 10: Modern COBOL Tooling and Development Workflows - Using IBM Developer for z/OS (formerly RDz) effectively
- Configuring IDEs for modern COBOL development
- Syntax highlighting, code templates, and snippets
- Navigating large COBOL codebases with dependency maps
- Using COBOL copybooks and include management
- Refactoring legacy code with modern standards
- Code documentation and inline commenting strategies
- Integrating linters and formatter tools
- Debugging techniques using interactive debuggers
- Leveraging code coverage and profiling tools
- Collaboration workflows for distributed mainframe teams
- Pair programming and code review in COBOL environments
Module 11: Performance Optimisation and Tuning - Identifying performance bottlenecks in COBOL programs
- Analysing CPU usage and I/O patterns
- Optimising loop structures and decision logic
- Reducing unnecessary file opens and closes
- Using compiler options for performance: OPT(2), RMODE, etc.
- Memory management: stack vs heap usage in COBOL
- Analysing AMODE and RMODE compatibility issues
- Performance monitoring with RMF and SMF data
- Tuning VSAM access with buffer pools and CI size
- CICS transaction throughput optimisation
- Reducing enclave and cross-memory overhead
- Batch window compression techniques
Module 12: Security and Compliance in COBOL Applications - z/OS security model: RACF, ACF2, and Top Secret overview
- Securing CICS resources with resource classes
- Protecting VSAM datasets with dataset-level security
- Authentication and authorisation in transaction flows
- Handling PII and financial data in COBOL programs
- GDPR and CCPA compliance for legacy systems
- Secure coding practices: preventing buffer overflows
- Input validation and sanitisation in procedural code
- Encrypting data at rest and in transit
- Using ICSF for cryptographic services
- Audit trail generation and logging standards
- Penetration testing strategies for mainframe applications
Module 13: Problem Determination and Abend Resolution - Using SDSF to interpret system messages and logs
- Interpreting abend codes: S0C1, S0C4, S0C7, U4038, etc.
- Reading dump output using IPCS
- Using LE Diagnostic messages for COBOL errors
- Diagnosing storage violations and overlay issues
- Understanding DSA, TCB, and stack traces
- Linkage errors and program fetch issues
- Using traces in CICS and DB2 environments
- Reproducing and isolating intermittent failures
- Engaging IBM support with SYSUDUMP and SYSABEND
- Root cause analysis templates and documentation
- Creating runbooks for common failure scenarios
Module 14: Real-World Implementation Projects - Project 1: Modernise a legacy payroll batch process
- Design JCL with restart logic and error handling
- Refactor COBOL for maintainability and performance
- Replace flat files with VSAM datasets
- Integrate with DB2 for employee data lookup
- Project 2: Build a CICS transaction for policy lookup
- Create map screens using BMS
- Implement input validation and error messages
- Add audit logging and security checks
- Expose the transaction as a REST API using z/OS Connect
- Deploy to a test region and verify end-to-end flow
- Project 3: Containerise a claims processing module
- Use IBM Wazi to package COBOL logic
- Deploy to a Kubernetes test cluster
- Set up CI/CD using Jenkins and Git
- Write unit and integration tests
- Create monitoring dashboards
- Document the full deployment runbook
- Project 4: Lead a DevOps transformation scenario
- Assess legacy deployment risks
- Design secure and auditable pipelines
- Train team members on modern tooling
Module 15: Career Advancement and Certification Preparation - Structuring your modern mainframe portfolio for impact
- Documenting projects with executive summaries
- Writing a certification-ready case study
- Preparing your resume for COBOL modernisation roles
- Using LinkedIn to showcase your transformation story
- Networking within IBM Z and mainframe communities
- Transitioning to architecture, leadership, or consulting
- Interview preparation for senior mainframe roles
- Common technical and behavioural questions
- Presenting your work to non-technical stakeholders
- Understanding job market demand and salary benchmarks
- Planning your next certification path
- How to leverage your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Updating your professional profiles with verified credentials
- Maintaining skills with lifelong access and updates
- CICS architecture: regions, tasks, and transaction scheduling
- Understanding CICS commands: EXEC CICS syntax and conventions
- Linking COBOL programs using XCTL and LINK
- Handling COMMAREA and DTAs for inter-program communication
- Designing reentrant and thread-safe COBOL programs
- Using CICS built-in functions: SEND MAP, RECEIVE MAP, ASKTIME
- Map and mapset development with BMS macros
- Error trapping with HANDLE CONDITION and IGNORE CONDITION
- Using TSQs and TDQs for transient data queues
- Managing CICS storage: GETMAIN, FREEMAIN, and storage protection
- Integrating COBOL with CICS temporary storage
- Debugging CICS applications using CEDF and logs
Module 6: DB2 for z/OS Integration with COBOL - DB2 on z/OS: architecture and integration points
- Embedding SQL in COBOL using EXEC SQL statements
- Declaring host variables and SQLCA handling
- Using SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE in COBOL
- Handling cursors: DECLARE, OPEN, FETCH, CLOSE
- Managing null indicators and data type compatibility
- Precompilation and bind process for DB2 programs
- Isolation levels and their impact on application logic
- Dynamic vs static SQL: performance and maintainability trade-offs
- Error handling with SQLCODE and SQLSTATE
- Optimising SQL access paths using EXPLAIN and plan tables
- Batch reporting with COBOL-DB2 hybrid programs
Module 7: Modernisation Principles and Container Integration - Overview of IBM Z modernisation: from monolith to hybrid
- Using IBM Wazi to run z/OS workloads in containers
- Deploying COBOL applications in Kubernetes environments
- Refactoring legacy code for container compatibility
- State management in containerised mainframe applications
- Networking and service discovery for COBOL microservices
- Managing configuration and secrets in modern deployments
- Integrating containerised COBOL with CI/CD pipelines
- Monitoring and logging strategies for hybrid systems
- Performance benchmarking in container vs native z/OS
Module 8: REST and API Enablement for COBOL Systems - Principles of exposing COBOL logic as RESTful services
- Using IBM Z Application Program Interface (z/OS Connect)
- Defining API providers and service operations
- Mapping CICS transactions to REST endpoints
- Transforming COBOL data to JSON and XML formats
- Handling request routing and parameter mapping
- Security: OAuth, JWT, and TLS integration
- Testing APIs with Postman and Swagger
- Rate limiting, caching, and documentation generation
- Monitoring API usage and performance
- Versioning strategies for long-lived COBOL services
- Use case: exposing a claims validation service to mobile apps
Module 9: DevOps and CI/CD for Mainframe Environments - Mainframe DevOps: overcoming cultural and technical barriers
- Using IBM UrbanCode Deploy for mainframe automation
- Integrating COBOL with Jenkins pipelines
- Source control best practices using Git with mainframe datasets
- Synchronising PDS members with GitHub repositories
- Automated compile, link, and deploy workflows
- Unit testing COBOL with tools like Micro Focus Enterprise Test Server
- Static code analysis and SonarQube integration
- Managing build artifacts and deployment manifests
- Setting up automated regression testing
- Rollback and canary deployment patterns
- Metrics, logging, and audit trails in automated pipelines
Module 10: Modern COBOL Tooling and Development Workflows - Using IBM Developer for z/OS (formerly RDz) effectively
- Configuring IDEs for modern COBOL development
- Syntax highlighting, code templates, and snippets
- Navigating large COBOL codebases with dependency maps
- Using COBOL copybooks and include management
- Refactoring legacy code with modern standards
- Code documentation and inline commenting strategies
- Integrating linters and formatter tools
- Debugging techniques using interactive debuggers
- Leveraging code coverage and profiling tools
- Collaboration workflows for distributed mainframe teams
- Pair programming and code review in COBOL environments
Module 11: Performance Optimisation and Tuning - Identifying performance bottlenecks in COBOL programs
- Analysing CPU usage and I/O patterns
- Optimising loop structures and decision logic
- Reducing unnecessary file opens and closes
- Using compiler options for performance: OPT(2), RMODE, etc.
- Memory management: stack vs heap usage in COBOL
- Analysing AMODE and RMODE compatibility issues
- Performance monitoring with RMF and SMF data
- Tuning VSAM access with buffer pools and CI size
- CICS transaction throughput optimisation
- Reducing enclave and cross-memory overhead
- Batch window compression techniques
Module 12: Security and Compliance in COBOL Applications - z/OS security model: RACF, ACF2, and Top Secret overview
- Securing CICS resources with resource classes
- Protecting VSAM datasets with dataset-level security
- Authentication and authorisation in transaction flows
- Handling PII and financial data in COBOL programs
- GDPR and CCPA compliance for legacy systems
- Secure coding practices: preventing buffer overflows
- Input validation and sanitisation in procedural code
- Encrypting data at rest and in transit
- Using ICSF for cryptographic services
- Audit trail generation and logging standards
- Penetration testing strategies for mainframe applications
Module 13: Problem Determination and Abend Resolution - Using SDSF to interpret system messages and logs
- Interpreting abend codes: S0C1, S0C4, S0C7, U4038, etc.
- Reading dump output using IPCS
- Using LE Diagnostic messages for COBOL errors
- Diagnosing storage violations and overlay issues
- Understanding DSA, TCB, and stack traces
- Linkage errors and program fetch issues
- Using traces in CICS and DB2 environments
- Reproducing and isolating intermittent failures
- Engaging IBM support with SYSUDUMP and SYSABEND
- Root cause analysis templates and documentation
- Creating runbooks for common failure scenarios
Module 14: Real-World Implementation Projects - Project 1: Modernise a legacy payroll batch process
- Design JCL with restart logic and error handling
- Refactor COBOL for maintainability and performance
- Replace flat files with VSAM datasets
- Integrate with DB2 for employee data lookup
- Project 2: Build a CICS transaction for policy lookup
- Create map screens using BMS
- Implement input validation and error messages
- Add audit logging and security checks
- Expose the transaction as a REST API using z/OS Connect
- Deploy to a test region and verify end-to-end flow
- Project 3: Containerise a claims processing module
- Use IBM Wazi to package COBOL logic
- Deploy to a Kubernetes test cluster
- Set up CI/CD using Jenkins and Git
- Write unit and integration tests
- Create monitoring dashboards
- Document the full deployment runbook
- Project 4: Lead a DevOps transformation scenario
- Assess legacy deployment risks
- Design secure and auditable pipelines
- Train team members on modern tooling
Module 15: Career Advancement and Certification Preparation - Structuring your modern mainframe portfolio for impact
- Documenting projects with executive summaries
- Writing a certification-ready case study
- Preparing your resume for COBOL modernisation roles
- Using LinkedIn to showcase your transformation story
- Networking within IBM Z and mainframe communities
- Transitioning to architecture, leadership, or consulting
- Interview preparation for senior mainframe roles
- Common technical and behavioural questions
- Presenting your work to non-technical stakeholders
- Understanding job market demand and salary benchmarks
- Planning your next certification path
- How to leverage your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Updating your professional profiles with verified credentials
- Maintaining skills with lifelong access and updates
- Overview of IBM Z modernisation: from monolith to hybrid
- Using IBM Wazi to run z/OS workloads in containers
- Deploying COBOL applications in Kubernetes environments
- Refactoring legacy code for container compatibility
- State management in containerised mainframe applications
- Networking and service discovery for COBOL microservices
- Managing configuration and secrets in modern deployments
- Integrating containerised COBOL with CI/CD pipelines
- Monitoring and logging strategies for hybrid systems
- Performance benchmarking in container vs native z/OS
Module 8: REST and API Enablement for COBOL Systems - Principles of exposing COBOL logic as RESTful services
- Using IBM Z Application Program Interface (z/OS Connect)
- Defining API providers and service operations
- Mapping CICS transactions to REST endpoints
- Transforming COBOL data to JSON and XML formats
- Handling request routing and parameter mapping
- Security: OAuth, JWT, and TLS integration
- Testing APIs with Postman and Swagger
- Rate limiting, caching, and documentation generation
- Monitoring API usage and performance
- Versioning strategies for long-lived COBOL services
- Use case: exposing a claims validation service to mobile apps
Module 9: DevOps and CI/CD for Mainframe Environments - Mainframe DevOps: overcoming cultural and technical barriers
- Using IBM UrbanCode Deploy for mainframe automation
- Integrating COBOL with Jenkins pipelines
- Source control best practices using Git with mainframe datasets
- Synchronising PDS members with GitHub repositories
- Automated compile, link, and deploy workflows
- Unit testing COBOL with tools like Micro Focus Enterprise Test Server
- Static code analysis and SonarQube integration
- Managing build artifacts and deployment manifests
- Setting up automated regression testing
- Rollback and canary deployment patterns
- Metrics, logging, and audit trails in automated pipelines
Module 10: Modern COBOL Tooling and Development Workflows - Using IBM Developer for z/OS (formerly RDz) effectively
- Configuring IDEs for modern COBOL development
- Syntax highlighting, code templates, and snippets
- Navigating large COBOL codebases with dependency maps
- Using COBOL copybooks and include management
- Refactoring legacy code with modern standards
- Code documentation and inline commenting strategies
- Integrating linters and formatter tools
- Debugging techniques using interactive debuggers
- Leveraging code coverage and profiling tools
- Collaboration workflows for distributed mainframe teams
- Pair programming and code review in COBOL environments
Module 11: Performance Optimisation and Tuning - Identifying performance bottlenecks in COBOL programs
- Analysing CPU usage and I/O patterns
- Optimising loop structures and decision logic
- Reducing unnecessary file opens and closes
- Using compiler options for performance: OPT(2), RMODE, etc.
- Memory management: stack vs heap usage in COBOL
- Analysing AMODE and RMODE compatibility issues
- Performance monitoring with RMF and SMF data
- Tuning VSAM access with buffer pools and CI size
- CICS transaction throughput optimisation
- Reducing enclave and cross-memory overhead
- Batch window compression techniques
Module 12: Security and Compliance in COBOL Applications - z/OS security model: RACF, ACF2, and Top Secret overview
- Securing CICS resources with resource classes
- Protecting VSAM datasets with dataset-level security
- Authentication and authorisation in transaction flows
- Handling PII and financial data in COBOL programs
- GDPR and CCPA compliance for legacy systems
- Secure coding practices: preventing buffer overflows
- Input validation and sanitisation in procedural code
- Encrypting data at rest and in transit
- Using ICSF for cryptographic services
- Audit trail generation and logging standards
- Penetration testing strategies for mainframe applications
Module 13: Problem Determination and Abend Resolution - Using SDSF to interpret system messages and logs
- Interpreting abend codes: S0C1, S0C4, S0C7, U4038, etc.
- Reading dump output using IPCS
- Using LE Diagnostic messages for COBOL errors
- Diagnosing storage violations and overlay issues
- Understanding DSA, TCB, and stack traces
- Linkage errors and program fetch issues
- Using traces in CICS and DB2 environments
- Reproducing and isolating intermittent failures
- Engaging IBM support with SYSUDUMP and SYSABEND
- Root cause analysis templates and documentation
- Creating runbooks for common failure scenarios
Module 14: Real-World Implementation Projects - Project 1: Modernise a legacy payroll batch process
- Design JCL with restart logic and error handling
- Refactor COBOL for maintainability and performance
- Replace flat files with VSAM datasets
- Integrate with DB2 for employee data lookup
- Project 2: Build a CICS transaction for policy lookup
- Create map screens using BMS
- Implement input validation and error messages
- Add audit logging and security checks
- Expose the transaction as a REST API using z/OS Connect
- Deploy to a test region and verify end-to-end flow
- Project 3: Containerise a claims processing module
- Use IBM Wazi to package COBOL logic
- Deploy to a Kubernetes test cluster
- Set up CI/CD using Jenkins and Git
- Write unit and integration tests
- Create monitoring dashboards
- Document the full deployment runbook
- Project 4: Lead a DevOps transformation scenario
- Assess legacy deployment risks
- Design secure and auditable pipelines
- Train team members on modern tooling
Module 15: Career Advancement and Certification Preparation - Structuring your modern mainframe portfolio for impact
- Documenting projects with executive summaries
- Writing a certification-ready case study
- Preparing your resume for COBOL modernisation roles
- Using LinkedIn to showcase your transformation story
- Networking within IBM Z and mainframe communities
- Transitioning to architecture, leadership, or consulting
- Interview preparation for senior mainframe roles
- Common technical and behavioural questions
- Presenting your work to non-technical stakeholders
- Understanding job market demand and salary benchmarks
- Planning your next certification path
- How to leverage your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Updating your professional profiles with verified credentials
- Maintaining skills with lifelong access and updates
- Mainframe DevOps: overcoming cultural and technical barriers
- Using IBM UrbanCode Deploy for mainframe automation
- Integrating COBOL with Jenkins pipelines
- Source control best practices using Git with mainframe datasets
- Synchronising PDS members with GitHub repositories
- Automated compile, link, and deploy workflows
- Unit testing COBOL with tools like Micro Focus Enterprise Test Server
- Static code analysis and SonarQube integration
- Managing build artifacts and deployment manifests
- Setting up automated regression testing
- Rollback and canary deployment patterns
- Metrics, logging, and audit trails in automated pipelines
Module 10: Modern COBOL Tooling and Development Workflows - Using IBM Developer for z/OS (formerly RDz) effectively
- Configuring IDEs for modern COBOL development
- Syntax highlighting, code templates, and snippets
- Navigating large COBOL codebases with dependency maps
- Using COBOL copybooks and include management
- Refactoring legacy code with modern standards
- Code documentation and inline commenting strategies
- Integrating linters and formatter tools
- Debugging techniques using interactive debuggers
- Leveraging code coverage and profiling tools
- Collaboration workflows for distributed mainframe teams
- Pair programming and code review in COBOL environments
Module 11: Performance Optimisation and Tuning - Identifying performance bottlenecks in COBOL programs
- Analysing CPU usage and I/O patterns
- Optimising loop structures and decision logic
- Reducing unnecessary file opens and closes
- Using compiler options for performance: OPT(2), RMODE, etc.
- Memory management: stack vs heap usage in COBOL
- Analysing AMODE and RMODE compatibility issues
- Performance monitoring with RMF and SMF data
- Tuning VSAM access with buffer pools and CI size
- CICS transaction throughput optimisation
- Reducing enclave and cross-memory overhead
- Batch window compression techniques
Module 12: Security and Compliance in COBOL Applications - z/OS security model: RACF, ACF2, and Top Secret overview
- Securing CICS resources with resource classes
- Protecting VSAM datasets with dataset-level security
- Authentication and authorisation in transaction flows
- Handling PII and financial data in COBOL programs
- GDPR and CCPA compliance for legacy systems
- Secure coding practices: preventing buffer overflows
- Input validation and sanitisation in procedural code
- Encrypting data at rest and in transit
- Using ICSF for cryptographic services
- Audit trail generation and logging standards
- Penetration testing strategies for mainframe applications
Module 13: Problem Determination and Abend Resolution - Using SDSF to interpret system messages and logs
- Interpreting abend codes: S0C1, S0C4, S0C7, U4038, etc.
- Reading dump output using IPCS
- Using LE Diagnostic messages for COBOL errors
- Diagnosing storage violations and overlay issues
- Understanding DSA, TCB, and stack traces
- Linkage errors and program fetch issues
- Using traces in CICS and DB2 environments
- Reproducing and isolating intermittent failures
- Engaging IBM support with SYSUDUMP and SYSABEND
- Root cause analysis templates and documentation
- Creating runbooks for common failure scenarios
Module 14: Real-World Implementation Projects - Project 1: Modernise a legacy payroll batch process
- Design JCL with restart logic and error handling
- Refactor COBOL for maintainability and performance
- Replace flat files with VSAM datasets
- Integrate with DB2 for employee data lookup
- Project 2: Build a CICS transaction for policy lookup
- Create map screens using BMS
- Implement input validation and error messages
- Add audit logging and security checks
- Expose the transaction as a REST API using z/OS Connect
- Deploy to a test region and verify end-to-end flow
- Project 3: Containerise a claims processing module
- Use IBM Wazi to package COBOL logic
- Deploy to a Kubernetes test cluster
- Set up CI/CD using Jenkins and Git
- Write unit and integration tests
- Create monitoring dashboards
- Document the full deployment runbook
- Project 4: Lead a DevOps transformation scenario
- Assess legacy deployment risks
- Design secure and auditable pipelines
- Train team members on modern tooling
Module 15: Career Advancement and Certification Preparation - Structuring your modern mainframe portfolio for impact
- Documenting projects with executive summaries
- Writing a certification-ready case study
- Preparing your resume for COBOL modernisation roles
- Using LinkedIn to showcase your transformation story
- Networking within IBM Z and mainframe communities
- Transitioning to architecture, leadership, or consulting
- Interview preparation for senior mainframe roles
- Common technical and behavioural questions
- Presenting your work to non-technical stakeholders
- Understanding job market demand and salary benchmarks
- Planning your next certification path
- How to leverage your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Updating your professional profiles with verified credentials
- Maintaining skills with lifelong access and updates
- Identifying performance bottlenecks in COBOL programs
- Analysing CPU usage and I/O patterns
- Optimising loop structures and decision logic
- Reducing unnecessary file opens and closes
- Using compiler options for performance: OPT(2), RMODE, etc.
- Memory management: stack vs heap usage in COBOL
- Analysing AMODE and RMODE compatibility issues
- Performance monitoring with RMF and SMF data
- Tuning VSAM access with buffer pools and CI size
- CICS transaction throughput optimisation
- Reducing enclave and cross-memory overhead
- Batch window compression techniques
Module 12: Security and Compliance in COBOL Applications - z/OS security model: RACF, ACF2, and Top Secret overview
- Securing CICS resources with resource classes
- Protecting VSAM datasets with dataset-level security
- Authentication and authorisation in transaction flows
- Handling PII and financial data in COBOL programs
- GDPR and CCPA compliance for legacy systems
- Secure coding practices: preventing buffer overflows
- Input validation and sanitisation in procedural code
- Encrypting data at rest and in transit
- Using ICSF for cryptographic services
- Audit trail generation and logging standards
- Penetration testing strategies for mainframe applications
Module 13: Problem Determination and Abend Resolution - Using SDSF to interpret system messages and logs
- Interpreting abend codes: S0C1, S0C4, S0C7, U4038, etc.
- Reading dump output using IPCS
- Using LE Diagnostic messages for COBOL errors
- Diagnosing storage violations and overlay issues
- Understanding DSA, TCB, and stack traces
- Linkage errors and program fetch issues
- Using traces in CICS and DB2 environments
- Reproducing and isolating intermittent failures
- Engaging IBM support with SYSUDUMP and SYSABEND
- Root cause analysis templates and documentation
- Creating runbooks for common failure scenarios
Module 14: Real-World Implementation Projects - Project 1: Modernise a legacy payroll batch process
- Design JCL with restart logic and error handling
- Refactor COBOL for maintainability and performance
- Replace flat files with VSAM datasets
- Integrate with DB2 for employee data lookup
- Project 2: Build a CICS transaction for policy lookup
- Create map screens using BMS
- Implement input validation and error messages
- Add audit logging and security checks
- Expose the transaction as a REST API using z/OS Connect
- Deploy to a test region and verify end-to-end flow
- Project 3: Containerise a claims processing module
- Use IBM Wazi to package COBOL logic
- Deploy to a Kubernetes test cluster
- Set up CI/CD using Jenkins and Git
- Write unit and integration tests
- Create monitoring dashboards
- Document the full deployment runbook
- Project 4: Lead a DevOps transformation scenario
- Assess legacy deployment risks
- Design secure and auditable pipelines
- Train team members on modern tooling
Module 15: Career Advancement and Certification Preparation - Structuring your modern mainframe portfolio for impact
- Documenting projects with executive summaries
- Writing a certification-ready case study
- Preparing your resume for COBOL modernisation roles
- Using LinkedIn to showcase your transformation story
- Networking within IBM Z and mainframe communities
- Transitioning to architecture, leadership, or consulting
- Interview preparation for senior mainframe roles
- Common technical and behavioural questions
- Presenting your work to non-technical stakeholders
- Understanding job market demand and salary benchmarks
- Planning your next certification path
- How to leverage your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Updating your professional profiles with verified credentials
- Maintaining skills with lifelong access and updates
- Using SDSF to interpret system messages and logs
- Interpreting abend codes: S0C1, S0C4, S0C7, U4038, etc.
- Reading dump output using IPCS
- Using LE Diagnostic messages for COBOL errors
- Diagnosing storage violations and overlay issues
- Understanding DSA, TCB, and stack traces
- Linkage errors and program fetch issues
- Using traces in CICS and DB2 environments
- Reproducing and isolating intermittent failures
- Engaging IBM support with SYSUDUMP and SYSABEND
- Root cause analysis templates and documentation
- Creating runbooks for common failure scenarios
Module 14: Real-World Implementation Projects - Project 1: Modernise a legacy payroll batch process
- Design JCL with restart logic and error handling
- Refactor COBOL for maintainability and performance
- Replace flat files with VSAM datasets
- Integrate with DB2 for employee data lookup
- Project 2: Build a CICS transaction for policy lookup
- Create map screens using BMS
- Implement input validation and error messages
- Add audit logging and security checks
- Expose the transaction as a REST API using z/OS Connect
- Deploy to a test region and verify end-to-end flow
- Project 3: Containerise a claims processing module
- Use IBM Wazi to package COBOL logic
- Deploy to a Kubernetes test cluster
- Set up CI/CD using Jenkins and Git
- Write unit and integration tests
- Create monitoring dashboards
- Document the full deployment runbook
- Project 4: Lead a DevOps transformation scenario
- Assess legacy deployment risks
- Design secure and auditable pipelines
- Train team members on modern tooling
Module 15: Career Advancement and Certification Preparation - Structuring your modern mainframe portfolio for impact
- Documenting projects with executive summaries
- Writing a certification-ready case study
- Preparing your resume for COBOL modernisation roles
- Using LinkedIn to showcase your transformation story
- Networking within IBM Z and mainframe communities
- Transitioning to architecture, leadership, or consulting
- Interview preparation for senior mainframe roles
- Common technical and behavioural questions
- Presenting your work to non-technical stakeholders
- Understanding job market demand and salary benchmarks
- Planning your next certification path
- How to leverage your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Updating your professional profiles with verified credentials
- Maintaining skills with lifelong access and updates
- Structuring your modern mainframe portfolio for impact
- Documenting projects with executive summaries
- Writing a certification-ready case study
- Preparing your resume for COBOL modernisation roles
- Using LinkedIn to showcase your transformation story
- Networking within IBM Z and mainframe communities
- Transitioning to architecture, leadership, or consulting
- Interview preparation for senior mainframe roles
- Common technical and behavioural questions
- Presenting your work to non-technical stakeholders
- Understanding job market demand and salary benchmarks
- Planning your next certification path
- How to leverage your Certificate of Completion from The Art of Service
- Updating your professional profiles with verified credentials
- Maintaining skills with lifelong access and updates