Abstract: Methods, data structures and systems provide organize a table of contents for a volume (VTOC) stored in a storage system. The volume is divided into a plurality of ranges of tracks, including a first track range. For each track range, an associated sub-VTOC is created containing information about the contents of the track range. A master VTOC is also created containing a plurality of pointers, each pointer pointing to one of the plurality of sub-VTOCs. A first data set stored on one or more tracks within the first track range is updated and the sub-VTOC associated with the first track range is locked, whereby access to other sub-VTOCs is unaffected. The sub-VTOC associated with the first track range may then be accessed, updated and unlocked. Thus, updating data sets stored within different track ranges on the volume may proceed at the same time.

Abstract: A technique for operating a storage system includes determining utilization of multiple storage volumes over a time period. One or more application datasets are then reassigned to a different one of the multiple storage volumes based on the utilization of the multiple storage volumes over the time period and a requested performance level for an associated application.

Abstract: A system, method and computer program product for directing data backups with flexible timing of data backups based on the importance of the data and on the dynamic nature of the data content. Specifically, a Data Backup Timing (DBT) utility directs granular data backups by implementing the functions of monitoring data updates, revising data parameter values, and by conducting analyses using data parameter values. The DBT utility manages data back-up by automatically performing a back-up of data based on the following criteria: (1) the changes a data file undergoes; (2) whether a particular field has been modified; and (3) how critical the application data is as determined by the application owner. The DBT utility uses these criteria to provide a well timed data backup decision.