Re: 'IBM says it's time to dich PDM/SEU'?

While admittedly there are fewer advantages for a COBOL user than for an RPG
user - the WDSC tool set is a vast improvement over SEU.  CODE Designer
makes using SDA feel like carving faces on Mount Rushmore with a nail file!

WDSC/RSE - multiple files open for edit at the same time, up to 50 lines of
source visible at a time (depending on screen size/font) color coding of
source, ability to use scroll bar etc to move through the source.  Edit,
compile, test, edit, compile, test, ... All without closing the source
member.  Instant on line help (the COBOL manual).

There are other features like code completion, code templates, outline view,
etc. that work well in RPG - I haven't tried them in COBOL.  Last time I
looked at outline in COBOL it was weak but better than nothing for
high-speed navigation from one section/paragraph to another.

CODE Designer gives you a GUI drag and drop interface for designing 5250
screens and print layouts.

The CDs are shipped with the i5/OS CD set.  Look for a pack about 3/4 inch
thick with WebSphere Development Studio Client (or similar) on the front.
Ideally you want the V6 CDs.  V5.1.2 is the oldest one you should consider
loading.  You will need a PC with (preferably) a 2GHz CPU and 1Gb of memory.
If your PC doesn't meet this spec tell us what you do have and we can
advise.

P.S. There is a list dedicated to WDSC on this list server look for WDSCi -
lots of expert advice there.  

Jon Paris
Partner400

www.Partner400.com