I recently completed a project that I’m excited to share. A new zTrial that demonstrates how to integrate IBM Operational Decision Manager (ODM) for z/OS with IBM Machine Learning for z/OS. This trial is designed to help users explore both products and how easy it can be to combine them.

What is a zTrial?

A zTrial is a self-guided lab that simulates a real-world setup, allowing users to interact with ODM and ML on z/OS through a Windows VM connected to a z/OS VM.

Step-by-Step Experience

1. Explore IBM ML for z/OS
• Navigate the MLz web application
• Locate and inspect the deployed model
• Download the model for external use
• Submit a test request and receive a prediction
2. Invoke ODM via COBOL in CICS
• Submit a transaction through a COBOL program running in CICS
• Observe the decision outcome generated by ODM on z/OS
3. Enhance Rules with Machine Learning
• Open Rule Designer and modify the rules
• Integrate a callout to the ML scoring service
• Deploy the updated rules
• Re-run the COBOL program and observe how the ML prediction influences the final decision

Why It Matters

This zTrial isn’t just about showcasing integration. It is also about making it easy for users to experience it firsthand.

• It streamlines the process of enabling Machine Learning within ODM, removing the complexity often associated with such integrations.
• It’s designed so that even users without deep technical expertise can walk through the scenario and feel confident that they’ve built something meaningful.
• The trial has already proved successful as it was used to hold hands-on lab sessions at different conferences such as TechXchange.

Key Takeaways

• Learn how to add Machine Learning to existing business rules used by a COBOL application
• Experience the end-to-end integration of ODM and ML on z/OS
• See firsthand how AI-enhanced decisions can enhance rule decision outcomes

👉 Try the zTrial yourself: zTrial request page