Introduction to Process Definition

Processes are reusable software building blocks for constructing APPX applications. When you select process management from the Application Design menu, the following overlay appears:

There are nine distinct process types, described below:

Menu processes

Provide an on-screen display from which to execute selected processes. For example, a screen that lists the reports available in an application and from which you select a specific report is a menu process. Refer to Chapter 3-4: Menu Processes for a discussion of menu specifications.

Job processes

Control the sequencing of related processes. Refer to Chapter 3-5: Job Processes for more information.

Input processes

Permit you to enter or maintain data in one or more files from designer-formatted screens and overlays. A sales order entry function and a customer file maintenance function are both input processes. Refer to Chapter 3-6: Input Processes for additional information.

Output processes

Convey information from a database, either on the screen or in hard copy, according to a designer-defined format. Trial balances, product purchase history reports, and customer lists are all examples of output processes. See Chapter 3-7: Output Processes for more information.

Update processes

Alter a database by adding, deleting, and changing records in the database’s files. Refer to Chapter 3-8: Update Processes for additional information.

Query processes

Determine the records that are available to a subsequent input, update, or output process, and/or establish the sort hierarchy. See Chapter 3-9: Query Processes for more information.

Inquiry processes

Are exactly like output processes, except that they automatically print to the screen, and allow a user to select a specific record for inquiry. Refer to Chapter 3-10: Inquiry Processes for more information.

Status processes

Provide various error reporting options. Refer to Chapter 3-11: Status Processes for additional information.

Subroutine processes

Define reusable procedural programs that can be executed from other APPX processes. A program that converts one unit of measure to another, for example, can be written as a subroutine. Refer to Chapter 3-12: Subroutine Processes for more information.