The Communications Infrastructure Program is SHARE's focus for telecommunications hardware, software, communications architectures, programming interfaces and interface standards to provide a framework for complete connectivity. The program provides technical direction and network management techniques to assist members in developing effective and efficient networks. It promotes mutual support for SHARE members, enhanced by close-working relationships with IBM and other vendors. The program sessions provide ongoing dialogues among attendees, the program staff, other vendors, and IBM. The program promotes quality work products such as requirement statements, white papers, and session reports for SHARE Proceedings. The Communications Infrastructure Program participates as a member of the SHARE team dealing with telecommunications issues that span SHARE's program boundaries. Areas include:
- Sysplex Network Technology
- APPN/HPR /Enterprise Extender architectures
- TCP/IP architectures
- Workstation-to-host connectivity
- Communications Server for Linux on zSeries
- Enterprise Network Design and implementation
- Interconnection of IBM and non-IBM systems
- Network Management
- WEB and eBusiness Solutions
- Storage Area Networking Concepts
The Communications Infrastructure Program works to promote technical excellence by encouraging members to give user experience sessions. The project mascot is the spider as it provides connectivity with its web. The project is currently open and actively encourages new and existing members to get involved with the program's projects.