RAAD Modernization Guide
RAAD is a report generation and management product by CSI International. Explore technical details, modernization strategies, and migration paths below.
Product Overview
RAAD streamlines report management on zVSE/VSEn systems.
RAAD automates report distribution based on predefined rules, ensuring timely delivery of information.
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 data sources can RAAD access, and how are reports stored?
RAAD accesses reports from POWER reader (RDR), Punch (PUN), List (LST) or Transmit (XMT) queues, VM reader (VMR), punch (VMP) and List (VML) queues, or existing CSI-ARCHIVE datasets. It stores reports in a compressed format, retaining them based on defined parameters. Users can view reports online or automatically route them to specific printers.
Can RAAD monitor currently running VSE jobs?
RAAD allows users to view the output of currently running VSE jobs, providing real-time monitoring capabilities. This feature helps in tracking job progress and identifying potential issues.
What automation features does RAAD offer for report distribution?
RAAD's automation capabilities include automatically sending reports to specific printers based on predefined rules. This ensures that reports are delivered to the intended recipients without manual intervention.
Technical
What types of APIs does RAAD expose, and what protocols does it use?
While specific API details are not publicly available, RAAD likely uses a combination of native APIs for zVSE/VSEn and potentially a RESTful interface for web-based access. Communication protocols would include TCP/IP for network communication and potentially SNA for mainframe interactions.
What are the main system components of RAAD, and how do they communicate?
The main system components likely include a report retrieval module, a compression/storage module, a viewing module, and a printing/output module. These components communicate through internal system calls and data queues.
What databases or storage mechanisms are used by RAAD, and what are the network requirements?
RAAD likely uses VSAM datasets for storing report data and configuration information. The specific ports and network requirements depend on the configuration, but standard ports for TCP/IP communication would be necessary for network printing and web access.
Business Value
How does RAAD enhance business value?
RAAD enhances business value by providing efficient report management, reducing the need for manual handling and storage of physical reports. Automation of report distribution ensures timely delivery of critical information, improving decision-making processes.
How does RAAD contribute to cost savings and compliance?
By compressing and archiving reports, RAAD helps organizations comply with data retention policies and reduce storage costs. Online viewing capabilities minimize the need for printing, contributing to cost savings and environmental sustainability.
Security
What authentication methods are supported by RAAD?
RAAD likely supports standard authentication methods for zVSE/VSEn, such as user IDs and passwords managed through the VSE security system. Integration with external security systems like RACF or ACF2 may also be possible.
What access control model is used by RAAD?
RAAD likely employs an access control model based on user roles and permissions, defining which users can access specific reports or perform certain actions. This helps ensure that sensitive information is only accessible to authorized personnel.
What encryption is used by RAAD, and where is it applied?
Report data is stored in a compressed format, which provides a degree of protection against unauthorized access. Encryption may be used for data transmission over networks, depending on the configuration.
What audit and logging capabilities exist in RAAD?
RAAD provides audit logging capabilities, recording user access and actions performed within the system. These logs can be used to track activity, identify potential security breaches, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Operations
What administrative interfaces are available for RAAD?
RAAD is administered through a combination of command-line interfaces (CLI) and potentially a web-based console. The CLI is used for configuring system parameters and managing reports, while the web console provides a user-friendly interface for monitoring and administration.
How is user management handled in RAAD?
User management is handled through the VSE security system, which allows administrators to create and manage user accounts, assign roles, and define access permissions. RAAD integrates with this system to ensure consistent user management.
What are the main configuration parameters for RAAD?
Key configuration parameters include report retention policies, printer definitions, user access controls, and system logging settings. These parameters are typically configured through the CLI or web console.
What monitoring and logging capabilities exist in RAAD?
RAAD provides monitoring and logging capabilities, allowing administrators to track system activity, identify potential issues, and ensure optimal performance. Logs can be used to troubleshoot problems and monitor resource utilization.
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