SMF Data

Key SMF Subtypes for ITBI: Unlocking Mainframe Transparency

From Raw SMF Data to Strategic Insight

At SMT Data, we help organizations transform complex mainframe data — including IBM DB2 SMF type 100 buffer pool metrics — into actionable IT Business Intelligence (ITBI™). A cornerstone of this transformation is the ability to collect, interpret, and leverage the right SMF (System Management Facility) records — the raw data behind cost transparency, capacity planning, and performance optimization.

Why SMF types Matter

Mainframe environments are incredibly rich in data, but some SMF records offer more practical value than others.
In our experience across sectors and industries, some subtypes stand out for their ability to drive decision-making and deliver real business value.

Therefore, we have highlighted eight of the most impactful SMF record types that form the foundation for ITBI insights.

The 8 Most Valuable SMF types for ITBI

• SMF 30 – Tracks job execution and resource usage at the address-space level for invoicing, usage reporting, and job-level analysis.

• SMF 70 – Provides CPU and LPAR activity data essential for capacity planning, license optimization, and performance trending.

• SMF 72 – Delivers workload metrics from Workload Manager for performance tuning and aligning IT with business goals.

• SMF 100 – Shows DB2 buffer pool usage for optimizing I/O efficiency, reducing CPU, and improving throughput.

• SMF 101 – Offers performance and accounting data for DB2 and DDF workloads, enabling detailed optimization.

• SMF 110 – Gives insights into CICS transactions, supporting workload optimization and cost allocation.

• SMF 113 – Highlights CPU cache efficiency, guiding hardware upgrades and optimization for modern processors.

• 56FA – Captures granular IMS workload activity for performance analysis and cost attribution.

Go Beyond the Core Eight

These subtypes are just the beginning. The ITBI platform supports a broad and evolving range of SMF records to meet diverse organizational needs – from SMF type 30 to DB2 SMF type 100 and beyond.

Get in Touch with Our Experts

Exploring ITBI or looking to deepen insights? Contact us to learn how we can help turn SMF data into actionable business value.