If you are connecting to the mainframe with methods other than a z/OSMF profile, you do not need to configure z/OSMF. Other connection options might include using FTP, or your custom API. Zowe ...
Configuring z/OSMF Lite (for non-production use) This section provides information about requirements for z/OSMF Lite configuration. Disclaimer: z/OSMF Lite can be used in a non-production environment ...