In DB2 utilities, what is SPUFI and how is it commonly used by developers and DBAs?

Introduction / Context:
SPUFI is one of the earliest and most widely known tools for running ad hoc SQL on DB2 for z slash OS. Even though modern tools exist, interviewers still ask about SPUFI to check familiarity with classic mainframe utilities and basic SQL testing workflows.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are working with DB2 on a mainframe using TSO or ISPF panels.
• Developers and DBAs need a simple way to type in SQL statements and see results.
• The tool is named SPUFI.

Concept / Approach:
SPUFI stands for SQL Processing Using File Input. It is an ISPF dialog that lets users enter SQL statements into a dataset or member, then submit them for execution. Results can be viewed and saved for later inspection. It is not responsible for reorganizing data, running RUNSTATS, or scheduling jobs. Therefore, the correct option must highlight SQL input and execution as its main function.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that SPUFI is accessed through ISPF panels on TSO sessions. Step 2: Users type SQL commands, such as SELECT or UPDATE statements, into an input dataset. Step 3: SPUFI reads the SQL from the file, sends it to DB2, and captures any output or messages. Step 4: The results can be reviewed within ISPF or stored in datasets for later analysis. Step 5: Recognize that this behavior corresponds to SQL Processing Using File Input, as stated in option A.

Verification / Alternative check:
Mainframe training materials often illustrate SPUFI usage as the simplest way to test SQL statements before embedding them in programs. Screenshots show panels where users specify input and output datasets and then execute SQL. These references confirm that SPUFI is a SQL execution environment running under TSO or ISPF, not a physical reorganization or scheduling tool.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option B is wrong because reorganizing table spaces and indexes is done by REORG utilities, not SPUFI.
Option C is wrong because RUNSTATS is a separate utility, and SPUFI does not automatically collect statistics.
Option D is wrong because job scheduling is managed by the operating system and job control systems, not by SPUFI.

Common Pitfalls:
Newcomers sometimes confuse SPUFI with other DB2 utilities such as QMF or modern graphical tools. Another pitfall is forgetting that SPUFI reads SQL from datasets, which can lead to errors if the datasets are not allocated correctly. Knowing the full form of SPUFI and its basic workflow is often enough to answer many interview questions on this topic.

Final Answer:
SPUFI is a TSO or ISPF facility called SQL Processing Using File Input that allows users to enter, execute, and save ad hoc SQL statements.