When Processing is Required
The data dictionary's input processes track modifications that, when they occur, require the dictionary (or selected portions of it) to be processed. By tracking situations that require processing, APPX can eliminate errors by removing the possibility that other components within APPX will access obsolete data specifications.
The following paragraphs describe conditions for which processing is required: Domains require processing after they are added to the dictionary and whenever their specifications have been modified. Processing of domains is automatic in APPX. If a domain requires processing, all fields that reference the domain also require it. If a domain is deleted from the dictionary, any remaining fields that reference the domain must be modified and processed.
Files require processing after they are added to the dictionary and whenever their specifications are modified. Processing of files is automatic in APPX. In addition, a record/file must be processed whenever fields are added or deleted, or a field specification is modified. If a record/file is deleted from the dictionary, its associated fields are automatically deleted.
Work fields must be processed whenever a work field is added or deleted, and whenever a specification for any work field is modified. Processing of work fields is automatic in APPX. If any work field requires processing, all work fields are processed. The Appx Designer must take care when modifying the Data Dictionary, especially when working with "live" files. Most changes made in the dictionary will require the file be restructured. This is an automatic condition which, when encountered, cannot be ignored or undone. The file will have to be restructured (see File Management). Restructuring a file can take a significant amount of time. Users will NOT be able to access the file until the file is successfully restructured. |