Prompt user if they try to start a second z/OSMF Workflow instance from the same Workflow Definition

Some z/OSMF processes might not be suited to having multiple instances running in parallel. However, because there is currently no way to know from a Workflow instance which Workflow Definition it was created from, it is possible to start a second instance even if there is a prior instance that has not yet been completed.

If z/OSMF could store the name of the associated Workflow Definition in each Workflow instance (see RFE 134878), it would seem to be relatively easy to enhance the Create Workflow process to check to see if there is an active instance of that Workflow Definition. If there is, the user could be prompted to see if it is acceptable to start a second instance when there is an existing instance that is not yet complete.

As a Version 2 of this enhancement, a field could be added to the Workflow Definition where the user could specify whether it is acceptable to start a second instance. The Create Workflow process could then check that flag, eliminating the need to prompt the user to see if it is OK to proceed or not.

This was previously submitted to RFE on July 24, 2019 as RFE 374879.

Comments:

Stan W Abramczyk, Jr
Posted: Aug 20, 2019 10:26 PM

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Comment: A simple example might be a Workflow that started by deleting any work data sets that might be left over from a previous instance. If a second instance is started before the first instance completes, the second instance could delete the work data sets before the first instance has finished using them.

I agreed this could happen especially with a large shop spread out across the country

Whatever we can be do to avoid this possible issue we should do it.

Stan A

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Stan W Abramczyk, Jr
Posted: Sep 30, 2019 04:29 PM

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Sounds like another great idea, additional functionality is always a great idea!

Stan A