Revolutionizing Performance Monitoring by introducing Key Performance Metrics for MQ
IBM Z Performance and Capacity Analytics (IZPCA) has long been a cornerstone for IT professionals managing mainframe environments. With the latest updates in July 2024, IZPCA is set to transform how you monitor and optimize your IBM MQ subsystems. The newly introduced Key Performance Metrics (KPM) for MQ component is a game-changer, offering 26 additional reports designed with insights from IBM’s Washington Systems Center experts. (Ref - PH30326)
This enhancement allows you to:
- Monitor Buffer Pools, Message Manager, and Page Sets Trends: Stay ahead of performance issues by identifying trends and potential bottlenecks.
- Dive Deep into Detail-Level Data: Understand granular performance metrics to make informed decisions and optimize system performance.
For instance, the MQ Queue detail report highlights critical areas like GET requests versus Unfulfilled GETS and the use of expensive PUT1 requests. By Providing such detailed insights, you can now fine-tune your MQ queues for optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.
Enhancing System Health Monitoring through Health Metrics Scorecard
A new, significant addition to the Health Metrics Scorecard gives you the ability to track the health of your MQ systems. New exceptions and alerts, such as MQ Buffer being 95% or 100% full, and No available MQ Log Buffers, are now part of the 13 new rules added to the scorecard. This ensures that even non-expert MQ administrators can easily identify and address potential issues, making system monitoring more accessible and efficient.
Streamlining Deployment with z/OSMF Implementation Workflow
Simplifying the deployment process is crucial for maximizing the value of IZPCA. The new z/OSMF Implementation Workflow builds on last year’s IZPCA Implementation Guide and Best Practices manual, offered a streamlined, de-risked deployment process. (Ref - PH57891)
Key benefits include:
- Simplified and Faster Deployment: Reduce deployment time and gain quicker access to IZPCA insights.
- Step-by-Step Guidance: Built-in dependencies and saved parameters minimize errors and ensure a smooth installation process.
- Automated Database and Partitioning Setup: Scripts for database creation and DataMover installation take the guesswork out of setup.
Future-Proofing with Cognos 11.2.4 Support
With Cognos 11.1.7 going out of support, IZPCA now fully supports Cognos 11.2.4. (Ref-PH58490)
This update ensures compatibility and includes enhancements like friendly error messages that guide users on the required components for generating specific reports. This user-friendly approach helps maintain smooth operations and minimizes disruptions.
Ensuring Compatibility and Enhanced Functionality
To keep IZPCA at the forefront of performance and capacity analytics, we've introduced several compatibility updates and enhancements:
- AIU Tolerance (PH58210): Support for AIU fields from SMF 113 and NNPI counters from SMF 30, enabling observation of z16s onboard AI accelerators usage.
- CICS 6.2 Compatibility (PH59905): Necessary changes to CICS components for seamless integration with CICS 6.2.
- Support for New Record Types: Including GDPS SMF 105 (PH57707) and SMF 99 subtypes 6, 12, and 14 (PH57200).
Call for Action:
Staying up-to-date with IZPCA’s latest deliverables is essential for optimizing your mainframe environment. For more information on maintenance and new functions, visit our maintenance and new function site.
We value your feedback and encourage you to submit any enhancements or ideas through IBM Ideas.
By leveraging these latest updates available in IZPCA, this product will continue to empower IT professionals with the tools needed to maintain robust, efficient, and future-ready mainframe systems.