New SoftLanding software release enables faster, easier job scheduling for IBM i users

Flowcharting feature in AUTOMON for iSchedule highlights job scheduling dependencies and reduces risk
PETERBOROUGH, NH – July 7, 2015 – SoftLanding® Systems, a division of UNICOM® Global, has introduced flowchart visualization in the new release of its advanced job scheduler for IBM i systems, AUTOMON for iSchedule. This feature enables systems administrators to view, create or amend a graphical representation of any job schedule, which makes it easier to understand the flow of complex schedules. Scheduling changes can be made more quickly, with greater confidence and less risk.
“It can be difficult to see exactly what is happening when you are just looking at a written schedule,” said Jim Fisher, SoftLanding Operations Manager. “When you view the schedule as a flowchart you can immediately spot dependencies between jobs. As a result, job scheduling becomes quicker and more error proof because you can see at a glance what the effects of any changes will be.
“As the information is so much more transparent it is also easier to optimize the schedule and eliminate processing bottlenecks. That’s vital for organizations seeking to pack more into the overnight processing window without impacting online system availability for customers or employees. It also frees up more time in the schedule for upgrades and other essential maintenance.”
As the current generation of experienced IBM i systems administrators comes up for retirement, the ability to work with a visual representation of job schedules also speeds up learning for new staff and allows them to become productive more quickly.
AUTOMON for iSchedule is part of SoftLanding’s suite of automated operations software for IBM i systems. The AUTOMON suite encompasses the following software products:
AUTOMON® for iConsole v100
IBM i message management, for standalone or networked IBM i servers - improves system throughput and saves time and money through automated monitoring and response rules.
AUTOMON® for iSchedule v100
IBM i advanced job scheduler that manages batch work on standalone or networked IBM i servers, all with a single point of control - satisfies enterprise scheduling needs with capabilities such as unattended backups, restricted task scheduling and controlled system IPLs (Initial Program Loads).
AUTOMON® for iMessage v100
IBM i automated messaging for message queue, application and job monitoring, notifying system administrators and support personnel when problems and/or specific events occur - allows users to receive automated alerts and to control IBM i servers via a mobile phone using email, Twitter and 2-way SMS (Short Message Service) functionality.
AUTOMON® for iSpool v100
IBM i full function spool file management, featuring extensive electronic document facilities such as report splitting, document management, spool management, distribution and archiving.
SoftLanding’s IBM i products and solutions are commercially available through UNICOM Global’s UNICOM Systems and Macro 4 divisions. For additional product information please visit www.softlanding.com.