Many sites use Job Control Language (JCL) to run preprocessors, compilers, linkage editors, and other tools used in the development process. SCLM supports developers and project managers through the use of language definitions that tell SCLM how to parse, build, and promote members of an SCLM-controlled data set. Language definitions can also specify additional translators to execute for the COPY, PURGE, and VERIFY functions. Because the SCLM language definitions provide an easier method of implementing processing control than JCL does, many sites have found it beneficial to convert their JCL to SCLM language definitions. To ease the conversion process, SCLM provides sample language definitions that you can tailor to the special needs of your site.

This section explains how to construct SCLM language definitions to replace existing JCL decks. Examples illustrate the basic principles underlying a successful migration from JCL to SCLM and also demonstrate methods for avoiding potential problems and conflicts.