What are the main categories and sub-categories of software (both
platform (OS, DB, etc.) and application (ERP, CRM, etc.) that are most
typical on mainframes? I have some general categories I've read from
different sources. Sources that have a more exhaustive list and also
indication of the most frequent uses would be great. I need the most
help in the application stack (things above system tools), but futher
work in platform is helpful too.

Please provide some sample applications types under each category.

I've already built up part of the stack, but the categorization I have
might not be good enough - I would like to be able to point to
specific types of applications under each major application.

I know most application usage is in banking, insurance, government,
and IT with smaller shares in retail and manufacturing.

Furthermore, any relative sizing (which type of application /
mainframe purpose) comprises the most use, would be helpful.

Thanks.

My current stack:
Other back-office (sales forecasting)
Supply chain
ERP
Financial applications (ledger, payroll, ...)
CRM
Other system tools (Security, tape mgmt, data manipulation)
Transaction mgmt (CICS, IMS)
Database (DB2, ADABAS, IMS)
OS (IBM, Unisys, Bull)

Since most mainframe programs run on COBOL, you may be able to use that as a proxy.

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Clarification of Question by cquestion-ga on 25 Jan 2006 18:26 PST

To clarify, I would like to know what are the most common applications
/ uses of mainframes.

My thought is that it might help by doing searches on mainframe
applications on major verticals (gov't, banking, insurance) or
categories, after searching on what are the major categories.

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Clarification of Question by cquestion-ga on 25 Jan 2006 18:40 PST

Definitions for each category would also help.

Thanks!