The APAR process

The first step in the APAR process is for a Level 2 representative to enter the APAR into the RETAIN® system. The APAR text consists of a detailed description of the problem. Your name is also entered with the APAR, so that the Support Center knows who to contact if the change team needs any further information.

When the APAR has been entered, you will be given an APAR number. You must write this number on all documentation you submit to the change team. This number will always be associated with the APAR and its resolution and, if a code change is required, with the fix as well.

The next step of the APAR process is up to you. You must submit to the change team all the documentation related to the APAR. Then, when the change team develops a PTF for the problem, you should apply the fix and test it on your system.

Here is a summary of the things you need to do:

  1. Collect all the documentation that is required for the APAR. The Level 2 representative you are working with will tell you what you need. The documentation that is required varies, depending on the problem area, but Collecting the documentation for an APAR, will give you an idea of the material you may need to supply.
  2. Package all the APAR documentation and send it to the change team. The procedure for this is described in Sending the documentation to IBM.
  3. Apply the PTF that results from the APAR, preferably after testing the fix on your system. This step is described in Applying the fix.
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