H&M System Software z/OS zVSE/VSEn

KEYFAST Modernization Guide

Browse and EditData Management

KEYFAST is a browse and edit product by H&M System Software. Explore technical details, modernization strategies, and migration paths below.

Product Overview

KEYFAST is a CICS-based software solution designed to streamline the creation of data entry screens.

The software integrates seamlessly with existing CICS environments, leveraging its transaction processing capabilities.

Modernization Strategies

Rehost

Timeline:
6-12 months

Lift-and-shift to cloud infrastructure with minimal code changes. Fast migration with lower risk.

Refactor (Recommended)

Timeline:
18-24 months

Optimize application architecture for cloud while preserving business logic. Best ROI long-term.

Replatform

Timeline:
3-5 years

Complete rewrite to cloud-native architecture with microservices and modern tech stack.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

What does KEYFAST do?

KEYFAST is a CICS-based software solution that enables users to rapidly design and implement data entry screens without requiring traditional programming. It simplifies the process of creating screens for data input and validation within CICS environments.

Is this a system, application, or tool?

KEYFAST is best classified as an application development toolset. It provides the necessary components and features to build and deploy data entry applications within a CICS environment.

What types of organizations use this?

Organizations that rely on CICS for transaction processing and require efficient data entry solutions are ideal candidates for KEYFAST. This includes businesses in sectors such as finance, insurance, and retail that handle large volumes of data.

When should we consider KEYFAST?

A company should consider KEYFAST when they need to quickly develop and deploy data entry screens within their CICS environment, especially when they want to avoid extensive programming efforts. It is particularly useful when rapid application development is a priority.

What are the alternatives to KEYFAST?

Alternatives to KEYFAST include other CICS screen generators and application development tools. Some competitors might offer similar functionality, but KEYFAST distinguishes itself with its ease of use and focus on rapid screen creation without programming.

Technical

What infrastructure is required?

KEYFAST requires a CICS environment to operate. It is designed to run on z/OS and z/VSE platforms. No other specific software is explicitly required, but the underlying CICS infrastructure must be properly configured.

For mainframe products: Does this run in an LPAR?

Yes, KEYFAST runs within an LPAR (Logical Partition) on z/OS or z/VSE. It leverages the CICS subsystem for its transaction processing capabilities.

Is this a standalone product or does it extend/enhance another product?

KEYFAST is a standalone product that provides screen design and data entry capabilities within CICS. It does not inherently extend or enhance another specific product, but it integrates seamlessly with CICS environments.

What databases or storage mechanisms are used?

KEYFAST primarily uses CICS command-level interfaces for its operations. It does not rely on external databases or storage mechanisms beyond what is provided by the CICS environment.

Business Value

What is the business value of using KEYFAST?

KEYFAST simplifies the creation of data entry screens, reducing development time and costs. By enabling rapid application development, it allows organizations to respond quickly to changing business needs and improve data processing efficiency.

Is KEYFAST suitable for both small and large businesses?

KEYFAST is suitable for organizations of various sizes, particularly those using CICS for transaction processing. It is beneficial for companies in industries such as finance, insurance, and retail that require efficient data entry solutions.

How does KEYFAST integrate with existing systems?

KEYFAST integrates with existing CICS environments, leveraging its transaction processing capabilities. It can also integrate with other systems through standard CICS interfaces and communication protocols.

Security

How does KEYFAST handle security?

KEYFAST leverages CICS security features for authentication and access control. It supports standard CICS authentication methods and allows administrators to define access permissions for data entry screens.

What access control model is used?

KEYFAST uses the access control mechanisms provided by CICS. This typically involves defining user profiles and assigning permissions to specific transactions and resources.

What audit/logging capabilities exist?

KEYFAST relies on CICS logging and auditing capabilities to track user activity and data modifications. These logs can be used to monitor system usage and detect potential security breaches.

Operations

How is KEYFAST typically deployed?

KEYFAST is typically deployed on-premise within a CICS environment. The implementation requires technical expertise in CICS administration and application development.

What level of technical expertise is required to implement it?

Implementing KEYFAST requires expertise in CICS administration and application development. Ongoing operational requirements include monitoring system performance, managing user access, and maintaining the CICS environment.

What ongoing operational requirements exist?

Ongoing operational requirements for KEYFAST include monitoring system performance, managing user access, and maintaining the CICS environment. Regular maintenance and updates may be required to ensure optimal performance and security.

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