Web FOCUS Modernization Guide

Web FOCUS is a reporting and analytics platform that allows organizations to create web-based reports from various data sources, including mainframe databases. It provides tools for data access, analysis, and visualization, enabling users to gain insights from their data.

Web FOCUS is a comprehensive platform that includes application development capabilities, a tool set for report creation, and middleware for connecting to diverse data sources. It is more than just a simple tool; it is designed to be a complete solution for enterprise reporting and analytics.

Organizations that rely on mainframe systems for their core business operations and need to provide web-based reporting and analytics capabilities to their users are a good fit. This includes large enterprises in industries such as finance, insurance, and government.

A company should consider using Web FOCUS when they need to provide web-based access to data stored on mainframe systems, integrate data from multiple sources into a unified reporting platform, and implement robust security controls for data access.

Alternatives to Web FOCUS include products like SAS, IBM Cognos, and MicroStrategy. These products offer similar reporting and analytics capabilities but may have different strengths in terms of data connectivity, user interface, or deployment options.

Web FOCUS can run on various platforms, including z/OS, UNIX, System i (AS/400), and Microsoft Windows. Its ability to run on z/OS makes it suitable for organizations with mainframe-based data.

For mainframe deployments, Web FOCUS typically runs in an LPAR (Logical Partition) on z/OS. It can integrate with z/OS security subsystems such as RACF, CA ACF2, and CA Top Secret.

Web FOCUS requires access to the data sources it will be reporting on. For mainframe environments, this includes connectivity to databases like DB2, CA IDMS, IMS, and CA Datacom. It may also require middleware components for data access and integration.

Web FOCUS uses a multi-tiered architecture with components for data access, report processing, and presentation. It supports various communication protocols, including TCP/IP, and may use specific protocols for accessing mainframe data sources.

Web FOCUS solves the business problem of providing timely and accurate information to decision-makers. By enabling web-based reporting and analytics on mainframe data, it helps organizations improve their operational efficiency and make better-informed decisions.

If an organization did not use Web FOCUS, they might struggle to provide web-based access to their mainframe data, rely on manual reporting processes, and face challenges in integrating data from multiple sources. This can lead to delays in decision-making and reduced operational efficiency.

Web FOCUS can integrate with enterprise ecosystems through its support for various data sources, security systems, and application development frameworks. It can connect to databases, directories, and other systems using standard protocols and APIs.

Web FOCUS can integrate with security products such as RACF, CA ACF2, and CA Top Secret to control access to mainframe datasets. It supports authentication methods such as LDAP and Kerberos.

Web FOCUS uses an access control model that allows administrators to define roles and permissions for users. This enables them to control who can access specific data and reports.

Web FOCUS provides audit logging capabilities that track user activity and data access. This helps organizations meet compliance requirements and monitor for security threats.

Web FOCUS is typically deployed on-premise or in a hybrid cloud environment. It requires technical expertise to implement and maintain, including skills in data integration, report development, and system administration.

Ongoing operational requirements for Web FOCUS include monitoring system performance, managing user access, and maintaining data connections. Common implementation challenges include data quality issues and integration complexities.

Administrative interfaces for Web FOCUS include a web-based console and command-line tools. User management is handled through the web console, which allows administrators to create and manage user accounts and roles.