Service SYSMOD packaging

The IMS service process typically makes APARs available as soon as they are completed, which is normally a few weeks before the corresponding PTF or PTFs are completed. In situations in which a fix is urgently needed after the APAR is completed, but before the PTF is available, using the APAR might be the best short-term solution.

APARs provided by IMS define as prerequisites (PRE, IFREQ, and so on) only those SYSMODS for which the APAR has code dependencies. IMS APARs list the corresponding APARs, not PTFs, as prerequisites. Whenever IMS APARs are processed by SMP/E, regression messages might be encountered. These messages must be analyzed to ensure that no regression is actually taking place.

PTFs contain as requisites (PRE, IFREQ, and so on) all prior PTFs affecting the same elements. Processing a PTF might require the processing of many additional SYSMODS, while processing an APAR might not. In emergency situations where a problem exists and a solution must be implemented quickly, the APAR might be the best short-term solution as it might require the least amount of change. However, you must always use the PTF as the final fix.

When processing APARs, encountering regression messages from SMP/E is normal. These messages must be analyzed to ensure that no regression will occur. If needed, contact IBM® Software Support for assistance.

PTFs supersede (SUP) their corresponding APARs. Therefore, removing the APAR prior to processing the PTF is not required.

Important: APAR and USERMOD fixes should not be processed using the SMP/E ACCEPT command. The corresponding PTF or PTFs should be processed as the final fix

USERMODs provided by IMS define as prerequisites (PRE, IFREQ, and so on) only those SYSMODs for which the USERMOD has code dependencies. USERMODs list the corresponding APARs, not PTFs, as prerequisites. In this way, USERMODS are like APARs. Whenever IMS USERMODS are processed by SMP/E, regression messages might be encountered. These messages must be analyzed to ensure that no regression is actually taking place. If needed, contact IBM Software Support for assistance.

USERMODs provided by IMS are not superseded (SUP) by a corresponding APAR or PTF. When the final fix is available, you must RESTORE the USERMOD from the system. The ++HOLD information provided with each USERMOD indicates that you must RESTORE the USERMOD and contains instructions on how to do so.