Item: JAMS
Rating: 9
Author: Xiaomei Chen, PMP®

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

We had been using an old job batch processor for our organisation's batch job scheduling and data processing needs. When we upgraded our Window's Server to 2019, the old program was no longer compatible with the server. When we transitioned to find a job batch processor software that would be compatible with the new server and allow us to have multiple users submit jobs in a much better manner. We looked at a couple of software companies and Fortra JAMS is the closest thing we have found that met our needs, and in some ways, it is better with a more robust system and user-friendly interface. The automated job submission capabilities from within simple applications using JAMS allow us to modernise our data processing methods and job scheduling ques on the new Windows Server.

Pros and Cons

Vendor fit - ability to deliver in a timely manner and ongoing support.
Compatibility - fits in with our modernisation vision and integrates with Windows Server 2019.
Non-functional requirements - user friendly interface, using job history is easier and uses less code.

Cancellation of jobs – there's no easy way of cancelling one job while other jobs are running.
Stop and restarting services – this causes disruptions to workflows.

Return on Investment

Implemented a new job batch processor that is compatible with Windows Server 2019 in 3 months, including rewriting the job submission code and PowerShell scripts.
Cancellation of jobs and restarting service causes disruptions to our queued job which imposes a risk to losing other jobs. I would highly recommend the JAMS dev team to dive deeper into this flaw and see if any improvements can be made to the roadmap.
Our revamped data processing procedures and personalised interactions with users have been key factors.

Scalability

Deploying JAMS is a testament to our commitment to excellence in modernisation our software system and our ability to adapt to changing circumstances. It’s crucial to recognise the hard work of every team member who has contributed to the success of implementing a new job batch processor.

Support Rating

We had a very aggressive timeline to look for a new batch job processor that is compatible with our new server that could help us maintain and improve our current data processing procedure. The JAMS support team was there to address our inquiries promptly. On average, their response times have been within 24 hours, ensuring that we receive assistance when we need it.

Alternatives Considered

VisualCron

Our team vetted a competing
software, VisualCron, feedback as follows:
1. Difficult to use.
2. Questionable customer service -
Language barrier and did not respond to request for demo video recording.

3. VisualCron seems more powerful
but with that it is more difficult to use if you do not wish to do more
extensive coding to customise it.

Key Insights

Do you think JAMS delivers good value for the price?

Yes

Are you happy with JAMS's feature set?

Yes

Did JAMS live up to sales and marketing promises?

I wasn't involved with the selection/purchase process

Did implementation of JAMS go as expected?

Yes

Would you buy JAMS again?

Yes

Likelihood to Recommend

Our team found JAMS to be reliable and an ideal tool for handling our automation, queue, and scheduling needs. We valued proactive and clear communication, and our dedicated JAMS account manager made it a priority to keep us informed at every step of the way. We had a very stringent and aggressive timeline to implement a new job batch processor to keep the project moving forward and our account manager was very accommodating and responsive. Whether it’s updates on ongoing issues or proactive tips to enhance our experience, their team has your best interest in mind.

A JAMS review: Unveiling Our New Job Batch Processor

Overall Satisfaction with JAMS