Understanding the difference between EXEC CICS START and EXEC CICS XCTL commands

In CICS programming, the EXEC CICS START and EXEC CICS XCTL commands are both used for initiating other programs or transactions, but they have some key differences:

EXEC CICS START Command:

The EXEC CICS START command is used to start a new program or transaction in a separate task. This command initiates a new task, which runs independently of the current task. The newly started task can communicate with the originating task through temporary storage or intercommunication control blocks.

EXEC CICS XCTL Command:

The EXEC CICS XCTL command, on the other hand, is used to transfer control to another program or transaction within the same task. This command does not create a new task but simply transfers control to the specified program or transaction. The control is not returned to the originating program until the XCTL'ed program completes its execution.

When deciding between using EXEC CICS START and EXEC CICS XCTL commands, consider whether you need a new task to run independently or if you simply need to transfer control within the same task.