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Status Not under consideration
Workspace IBM i
Created by Guest
Created on Mar 20, 2017

Modernize a bit the command interface of IBM I

The Command Interface is almost the same for the last 30 or more years !

Here are some simple stuff to improve and modernize a bit the command interface:

1. Handle and edit dates.
2. Edit codes and edit words for numeric variables.
3. When prompting - F4 to display parameter options, ability to click on an option instead of typing.
4. Ability to search keywords or options of the command and the Help interface of the command.
5. Avoid the need to define twice the command parameters: once in the program and afterwards in the command. Allow to put the CMD and PARM operations in the HLL programs. That would automatically create both - the program and the command, or just one unified object that will be able to be called or commanded.
6. When documenting program references by DSPPGMREF, include user defined commands.
7. Allow to issue commands with their keywords directly from RPG, not through QCMDEXC interface (see REQ 102457).
8. Since the screen for the command is not designed by the programmer, it is the system that designs it, why not do some smart design and make it GUI. (VALUES will become radio buttons, Etc.)


Use Case:

Example: When prompting for CPYF or OVRXXX cmd it takes some time until user finds the necessary parameter. Provide Search option on command and UIM HELP screens.


Idea priority Medium
  • Guest
    Reply
    |
    Sep 21, 2017

    Much of what you have specified in this RFE has been available for some time. The IBM i has a couple of GUI based interfaces that do provide a modern interface, searching, point and click.

    The IBM Navigator for i web based solution has a very rich set of features and functions for managing and accessing the system. In addition, the IBM Access for Mobile offering provides a similar set of rich feature / function but targeted for the Mobile user.

    Navigator for i -- https://www.ibm.com/developerworks/community/wikis/home?lang=en#!/wiki/IBM%20i%20Technology%20Updates/page/IBM%20Navigator%20for%20i

    IBM Access for Mobile - https://www-03.ibm.com/systems/power/software/i/access/mobile.html

    In addition, we have been on a journey the past several years, creating new ways to access and manage aspects of the operating system using SQL. There is now a rich set of SQL Services that offer in many cases enhanced function for accessing and managing aspects of the IBM i. Details on the list of available services can be found on developer works - https://www.ibm.com/developerworks/community/wikis/home?lang=en#!/wiki/IBM%20i%20Technology%20Updates/page/DB2%20for%20i%20-%20Services

    Examples and usage of these services can be found in the Insert from Examples page that is shipped with the Access Client Solutions product. https://www-03.ibm.com/systems/power/software/i/access/solutions.html