Murach's CICS for the COBOL Programmer

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Summary: This is going to be my desk-top CICS reference book
Review: An uncluttered layout and clear text make this the best textbook I've read in a very long time. You can see the code (or list of command options or diagram) on the right page, and read the explanation of the command on the left page. It's much easier than going back and forth trying to find a code example.

I was looking to fill in gaps in my knowledge, so I liked the way each topic stands alone. You can just look up VSAM browses or SQL commands or MRO without having to read the chapters leading up to it. I'm going to use this as a reference book. It has everything I need.

It was funny that the last two chapters were one on using CICS with web browsers and another on obsolete terms, like BLL-CELLS. I guess it's a reminder that CICS is still a developing system and we have to keep our knowledge fresh!

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Summary: Learn to write good Command Level CICS applications fast!
Review: CICS for the COBOL Programmer is an update to Murach's two volume CICS set utilizing their "paired page" format that makes the material incredibly easy to read and use. The intended audience is experienced COBOL programmers who need to learn Command Level CICS programming, from basic concepts to writing moderately complex applications quickly.

The first four sections introduce basic concepts and command syntax in a graduated style, so that at the conclusion the reader has been presented with all of the knowledge required to analyze the requirements, plan a structured design, and implement a moderately complex application consisting of several programs. The design techniques utilized incorporate the top-down structured approach that is most widely practiced in real world environments and is identical to that employed in Murach's Structured COBOL. Techniques for debugging abends are also presented.

Chapters covering advanced file and database handling techniques follow the introductory sections. Advanced VSAM file handling presented includes browsing files and accessing VSAM files utilizing alternate indexes. An overview of working with DB2 databases is included, although developing proficiency in CICS/DB2 applications will most likely require acquisition of an advanced text concentrating on this specialized topic.

The final section presents advanced CICS features and commands, such as concurrent task management, inter-region communication, distributed processing, and modular application development, including development of Web enabled CICS applications. Information is also included which may be necessary to maintain older CICS code, which may use now obsolete coding techniques.

I am very pleased to see the addition of this title to Murach's catalog. It has troubled me that the textbook that I learned Command Level CICS from has been long out of print, along with a couple of additional introductory textbooks that I acquired across the years. Now there is a book available to recommend when I encounter someone who is trying to learn CICS.

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Summary: For anyone wanting to learn CICS programming
Review: Murach's CICS For The Cobol Programmer is a complete training manual for CICS so well written and presented that the novice will rapidly become proficient in designing, coding, and testing CICS programs. All the features programmers use regularly on the job are featured including those for VSAM file handling, editing input data, controlling the display of data at a terminal, DB2 data access, error processing, and debugging. Programmers are also provided with an overview of how CICS can be used for web-based applications, including the design and coding considerations involved. Murach's distinctive and "learner friendly" paired-pages style is followed throughout with the illustrations and crucial coding details for a single feature or function on the right-hand page, while the left-hand page offers extra explanation and perspective. Murach's CICS For The Cobol Programmer is a "must" for anyone wanting to learn CICS programming and operation.