Job Control Language
<language, operating system> (JCL) IBM's supremely rude script language,
used to control the execution of programs in IBM OS/360's batch systems. JCL has
a very fascist syntax, and some versions will, for example, barf if two spaces
appear where it expects one.
Most programmers confronted with JCL simply copy a working file (or card deck),
changing the file names. Someone who actually understands and generates unique
JCL is regarded with the mixed respect one gives to someone who memorises the
phone book. It is reported that hackers at IBM itself sometimes sing "Who's the
breeder of the crud that mangles you and me? I-B-M, J-C-L, M-o-u-s-e" to the
tune of the "Mickey Mouse Club" theme to express their opinion of the beast.
As with COBOL, JCL is often used as an archetype of ugliness even by those who
haven't experienced it. However, no self-respecting mainframe MVS programmer
would admit ignorance of JCL.
See also fear and loathing.
(1999-03-03)
Nearby terms:
JNI « jo « job « Job Control Language » Job
Entry System » Jobs » job security
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