Opening files when CICS is down

Q:

I am trying to learn and implement MBC, but have one question. If I run MBCBATCH to open files, but CICS is down how do I get the files opened, and how do I know the job failed? I want some kind of automation that will open the files once CICS comes up, if I have run the MBCBATCH to open them.

A:

You can use file status tracking to do what you are asking. You will need to set STATFLAG to Y and add the BATSTAT DD in your execution JCL. Then most file commands (irregardless of whether CICS is up or down) are recorded. During PLT start up, program MBCPPPLT resets the files' status to the last desired state.