On 18 Jan 2007, you wrote in bit.listserv.ibm-main:
>>I could get past whatever it is that makes it so hard for me to
>>understand the syntax of these newer features.
>
>
> I don't personally have a problem with the syntax, but I know a lot of
> people seem to. I think, also, that we're seeing more "zNextGen" types
> who don't usually code control statements for a sort, they (I guess)
> set up a sort via drop-down menus and the like - which makes the
> learning curve of sort syntax (any mainframe sort tool, not just
> IBM's) a pretty big hurdle to jump.
I am feeling the need to defend myself. I am a 25 year veteran of
mainframe environments. They would not dare issue me a "zNextGen"
membership card. I can code standard sorts like there is no tomorrow.
I loathe the current trend in software development that your product is
just not cool without a graphical drag-drop front end. But, given the
fact that the there is a 'tricks' sheet on the website, you have to
assume that maybe some of these new sort verbs are not intuitively
obvious.
Quick now, without a manual, and without being Frank Yaeger. Tell me
exactly what this snippet of code is doing. you have 3 seconds. (And by
the way, you are currently supporting z/OS, DB2, IMS, VTAM, TCPIP, and
everthing else on, near or connected to, the mainframe... not just sorts)
OVERLAY=(49:SEQNUM,8,ZD,
41:41,8,ZD,SUB,49,8,ZD,M11,LENGTH=8))
[[[ the above is purely in jest. If you do not see the humor in it, I
apologize ]]]
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