Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about the BMC AMI DevOps for Db2 product.
For information about using this documentation portal, see About this documentation.
What is BMC AMI DevOps for Db2?
It automates the deployment of IBM Db2 for z/OS schema changes across mainframe environments, integrating with continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines to streamline database change management.
What are the main benefits of using this product?
It enables faster deployments, reduces manual errors, ensures compliance with Schema Standards rules, and integrates seamlessly with DevOps tools such as Jenkins, Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions, and GitLab CI/CD.
Which versions of Db2 does this product support?
It supports IBM Db2 for z/OS versions 12 and 13, which are compatible with BMC AMI Change Manager.
Features and capabilities
What schema management features does the product offer?
It supports schema comparison, change request generation, impact analysis, Schema Standards validation, file transmission, and automated JCL execution.
Can I evaluate the impact of schema changes before deployment?
Yes, the product generates impact reports that help assess the consequences of schema changes.
Does the product support rollback of schema changes?
Yes, rollback capabilities are available through integration with BMC AMI Change Manager to restore your schema if you identify a problem.
What is the Schema Standards feature?
Schema Standards validates schema sources against custom rules that flag violations to ensure compliance.
Can I use YAML files for configuration?
Yes, you can use YAML files to define and manage schema change pipelines in the BMC AMI DevOps Universal Connector platform.
Integration and automation
Which CI/CD tools does the product support?
Jenkins, Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions, and GitLab CI/CD are officially supported.
How does the product integrate with Jenkins?
It provides Jenkins plug-ins that let you incorporate schema change tasks into Jenkins pipelines and projects.
What is the Universal Connector?
It's a containerized application that facilitates integration with supported CI/CD tools and mainframe environments.
Can I use environment variables in projects and pipelines?
Yes, the product supports environment variables to control project and pipeline behavior.
Is manual intervention required during deployments?
No, deployments can be fully automated, though you can configure manual review steps.
Installation and setup
How do I install BMC AMI DevOps for Db2?
Installation involves downloading the product files from the BMC EPD site, followed by either installing the Jenkins plug-ins in Jenkins or downloading, pushing, and pulling the Universal Connector container image.
Are sample files available for setup?
Yes. To help you get started, we provide sample projects and pipelines for Jenkins and sample configurations and YAML files for the Universal Connector.
What are the prerequisites for installation?
You need compatible versions of BMC AMI Change Manager, BMC AMI Command Center, IBM Db2, IBM z/OS Management Facility (z/OSMF), and supported CI/CD tools.
For more information, see Installing.
For more information, see System requirements.
Licensing and support
Is a license required to use BMC AMI DevOps for Db2?
Yes, a valid license for BMC AMI DevOps is required.
Where can I get support for the product?
Support is available via BMC Support Central., including documentation, knowledge base, and community forums.
Troubleshooting and best practices
What should I do if schema validation fails?
Review the Schema Standards report and adjust the schema to comply with defined rules.
Can I customize schema rules?
Yes, you can customize rules to your organization’s standards in BMC AMI Command Center.
How do I monitor deployments?
Use the CI/CD console logs generated during pipeline and project runs.
Can I audit schema changes?
Yes, the product maintains detailed logs, job artifacts, and reports for auditing purposes.
How often is the product updated?
Updates are released periodically, and we encourage you to upgrade to the latest version for full support.
