Problems Associated With Batch Processing

By definition, a batch workload is a workload that runs unconstrained, and it will attempt to complete in the shortest time possible. This means that batch is the worst resource consumer, because it will take all the resources it needs until it is constrained by a system bottleneck (generally the smallest dataflow point in the system).

Batch presents two problems for system managers; it can impact other batch jobs running concurrently, and it can never be run together with the online portion of the workload during business hours.

Even if the batch jobs are scheduled to run during off-hours, for example, from 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m., a system problem or a day of high sales could cause the batch workload to spill over into business hours. Although not quite as bad as downtime, having a batch workload still running at 10:30 a.m. the next day could make online customers wait several minutes for each transaction, ultimately leading to fewer transactions.

Using resource allocation will limit the amount of resources available to the batch workloads and constrain them in a controlled manner.