IMS Application Programming Interfaces

IMS provides a standard set of functions to allow applications to access and manipulate data managed by IMS DB. These functions also allow applications to access and process messages managed by IMS TM and to perform certain system functions.

Calls to these standard functions can be made in a number of ways:

• A language-specific call interface. There is a language-specific call interface for each programming language in which IMS applications can be written.

• A language-independent call interface for applications written in any language that supports IBM's Language Environment for z/OS.

• The application interface block (AIB) call interface.

• For CICS applications that access IMS databases, the application can use the CICS command level interface to provide IMS DB support.

• REXX EXECs can invoke IMS functions by using the IMS Adapter for REXX.