Description: BMS, or Basic Mapping Support, is a fundamental tool in the CICS (Customer Information Control System) environment that allows developers to define and manage screen layouts in mainframe applications and other environments. Its primary function is to facilitate the creation of user interfaces by specifying how data should be presented on the screen, as well as user interaction with that data. BMS provides a set of macros that enable programmers to define screen attributes such as size, position, and data types to be displayed. This not only enhances efficiency in application development but also ensures a more consistent and user-friendly experience. Additionally, BMS is compatible with various CICS functions and other transaction processing systems, allowing for the integration of business logic and transaction management in a mainframe environment. Its relevance lies in its ability to simplify the development of complex applications, enabling programmers to focus on business logic rather than user interface details. In summary, BMS is an essential tool for creating applications in mainframe and interactive environments, providing robust support for screen design and user interaction.
History: BMS was introduced in the 1970s as part of the CICS tool suite, designed to facilitate application development in mainframe environments. As business needs grew, so did the complexity of applications, leading to the evolution of BMS to adapt to new technologies and user requirements. Over the years, BMS has been updated to include new features and enhance the developer experience.
Uses: BMS is primarily used in the development of mainframe and interactive applications that require user interfaces. It allows developers to define how data is presented on screens and manage user interaction with that data. It is particularly useful in transaction processing applications, where clear and effective presentation of information is crucial.
Examples: A practical example of BMS usage is in banking applications, where it is necessary to display account information and allow users to perform transactions. Another example is in inventory management systems, where BMS helps present product data and facilitate user input.
