Enterprise Print Manager Modernization Guide

Enterprise Print Manager is a software solution that manages and streamlines printing operations from mainframe applications. It handles data conversion and output to various destinations, including TCP/IP printers, VTAM printers, email, and files.

This is a system that provides comprehensive print management capabilities. It is not simply an application or a tool, but a complete solution for managing printing across an enterprise.

Organizations that rely on mainframe systems for core business processes and require robust print management capabilities typically use Enterprise Print Manager. This includes large enterprises in industries such as banking, insurance, and government.

A company should consider Enterprise Print Manager when they need to centralize and streamline their mainframe printing operations, improve output management, and ensure compatibility with various printer types and output formats.

Alternatives include other mainframe print management solutions such as CA Spool, LRS VPS, and similar products. These solutions offer comparable features for managing mainframe printing.

Enterprise Print Manager requires a z/OS mainframe environment. It typically runs in an LPAR and relies on subsystems such as JES for spooling. It also requires VTAM for communication with certain printers and devices.

Yes, this product is z/OS dependent. It leverages z/OS subsystems and services for its core functionality.

Enterprise Print Manager accepts input from JES spool, IMS (over VTAM), CICS (over VTAM), and Microsoft Windows/UNIX systems. It supports output to TCP/IP printers, VTAM printers, email, and files.

The product performs data conversion from AFP to PCL, PostScript, PDF, or ICDS. This allows mainframe applications to print to a wide variety of printers and output devices.

Enterprise Print Manager streamlines printing operations, reduces manual intervention, and improves output management. This can lead to cost savings, increased efficiency, and better control over printing processes.

Without Enterprise Print Manager, organizations may face challenges in managing mainframe printing, including compatibility issues, manual intervention, and lack of centralized control. This can result in increased costs and inefficiencies.

The product provides a centralized interface for managing printers and print jobs. This simplifies administration and allows for better control over printing resources.

Enterprise Print Manager supports various authentication methods for secure access. The specific methods supported should be confirmed with the vendor's documentation.

The product uses an access control model to restrict access to printers and print jobs based on user roles and permissions. This ensures that only authorized users can access sensitive information.

Encryption is used to protect sensitive data during transmission and storage. The specific encryption algorithms used should be confirmed with the vendor's documentation.

The product provides audit logging capabilities to track user activity and system events. This allows administrators to monitor security and identify potential issues.

Enterprise Print Manager can be deployed on-premise. The implementation requires technical expertise in z/OS and mainframe environments.

Ongoing operational requirements include monitoring system performance, managing printer configurations, and performing routine maintenance tasks. This requires skilled personnel with expertise in mainframe systems and print management.

Common implementation challenges include integrating with existing mainframe systems, configuring printer definitions, and ensuring compatibility with various output formats. Proper planning and testing are essential for a successful implementation.

Administrative interfaces include ISPF, VTAM, and web interfaces. These interfaces provide access to configuration parameters, user management, and monitoring capabilities.