DFSMS allows users on different z/OS systems to access the same PDSE simultaneously. A user who is sharing a PDSE can read or copy existing members in the PDSE, or create new members concurrently with other users on the same or other z/OS system and on other z/OS systems. Data integrity is maintained because only one user at a time can modify a data set member without copying it. With a PDS, you cannot copy or create members concurrently with other users of the PDS.

Related reading: For more information, see z/OS DFSMS Using Data Sets.