SoftQuery Modernization Guide

SoftQuery is a tool that allows users to update and query CICS files without requiring traditional programming. It provides a user-friendly interface to interact with mainframe data.

SoftQuery is best described as an application or tool set. It provides specific functionalities for browsing, editing, and managing files and datasets within the CICS environment.

Organizations that rely on CICS for transaction processing and data management on z/OS or zVSE/VSEn mainframes are ideal users of SoftQuery. This includes businesses in finance, insurance, retail, and government sectors.

A company should consider SoftQuery when they need to provide users with the ability to easily access and modify CICS data without the need for complex programming or specialized IT skills. It is also useful for ad-hoc reporting and data analysis.

Alternatives to SoftQuery include other CICS file management utilities and custom-built applications. Some competitors include File-AID for CICS and Expediter. SoftQuery distinguishes itself by offering a no-code approach to data access and modification.

SoftQuery requires a CICS environment running on z/OS or zVSE/VSEn. It integrates directly with CICS file management facilities.

SoftQuery runs within an LPAR on z/OS or zVSE/VSEn. It is dependent on the CICS subsystem for file access and transaction management.

SoftQuery likely uses VSAM datasets for storing its configuration and metadata. It interacts directly with CICS datasets for data access and modification.

The specific API types exposed by SoftQuery are not detailed, but it likely uses CICS APIs for file access and manipulation. Integration may involve COBOL or Assembler programs.

SoftQuery provides business value by enabling users to quickly access and modify CICS data without programming. This reduces development costs, improves response times, and empowers business users.

Without SoftQuery, organizations would need to rely on traditional programming methods to access and modify CICS data, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Business users would be dependent on IT staff for even simple data requests.

SoftQuery integrates with enterprise ecosystems by providing a user-friendly interface to CICS data. It can be used in conjunction with reporting tools and other applications that need access to mainframe data.

SoftQuery's security features likely include integration with existing mainframe security systems such as RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret. It controls access to CICS files and datasets based on user roles and permissions.

SoftQuery likely uses an access control model based on roles and permissions. Users are assigned roles that grant them access to specific CICS files and datasets. This ensures that only authorized users can access sensitive data.

SoftQuery likely provides audit logging capabilities to track user access and modifications to CICS data. These logs can be used for security monitoring and compliance purposes.

SoftQuery is typically deployed on-premise within the organization's mainframe environment. It requires integration with the CICS subsystem and existing security systems.

Implementing SoftQuery requires a moderate level of technical expertise. Familiarity with CICS, mainframe security systems, and file management concepts is beneficial.

Ongoing operational requirements for SoftQuery include monitoring system performance, managing user access, and maintaining the configuration of the application. Regular backups of configuration data are also recommended.