4.14.2 When You Use the Application Template Facility
When you create a new RDML function and specify a new function type of 1 (Generate from an Application Template) then the Application Template Facility will be invoked.
The Application Template Facility will initially place a "pop-up" window over the lower portion of the screen that you are currently using.
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DC@P301001 Define New Function
Process : CUSTOMERS Work with Customers
New function name : CUST01 Description : Enter Details of New Customers
New function type : 1 1. Generate from an Application Template
................................................................... : DC@P309601 Application Template Selection : : : : Place cursor on same line as required template and press ENTER : : Template Application Template Description : : ADD01 Data entry application - style 1 (simple) : : ADD02 Data entry application - style 2 (with confirmation): : ADD03 Data entry application - style 3 (batched input) : : BROWSE01 Browse data - style 1 (simple | single file) : : BROWSE02 Browse data - style 2 (simple | multi-file) : : INQUIRE01 Simple inquire - style 1 (flat screen display) : : INQUIRE02 Simple inquire - style 2 (with browse area as well) : : More ... : :Enter Fnn=Help Fnn=Exit Fnn=Cancel Fnn=Msgs Fnn=ChgSeq Fnn=Filter: :.................................................................:
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This pop up window is displaying a list of available Application Templates. From this pop up window you can elect to:
- Select an Application Template to use. Position the screen cursor anywhere on the same line as the template required and press enter. This will cause the selected template to be invoked.
- Scroll the list of templates. More templates probably exist than can be displayed in one page of the pop up window. To view the others, use the roll up or roll down keys to scroll backwards and forwards through the list of Application Templates.
Note that only the application templates that you are authorized to use are actually displayed to you.
- Use the (Change Sequence) function key to toggle the template list between template display sequence and template name sequence.
- The function key allows you to enter a full or partial template name. Only templates matching the entered value will be displayed. A filter value of blank will result in all templates being shown.
- Get a lot more information about a template. The short description of the template that is shown in the window only gives you a vague idea what sort of RDML function it would generate for you.
Most well constructed templates have a lot more information contained in their associated HELP panels (including fully worked examples of the type of RDML applications they produce).
To view these HELP panels, place the screen cursor on the same line as the Application Template you are interested in and press the HELP function key.
There is not a lot more that can be said about using Application Templates, because they are most often site defined, and even those that are shipped with the product have probably been modified to match your site's exact requirements.
However, some tips in using them are as follows:
- Make extensive use of the HELP function key and take your time. When using a template for the first time, read all the HELP panels associated with the template, especially the examples. Get a good idea of what the template will do and what the template won't do before you use it.
- Most templates work using a "question and answer" session. So after selecting a template to be used, a question will most likely appear in the pop up window area.
- If no question appears, and the "Process Definition Menu" is re-displayed, you can assume that the template has generated your RDML program without having to ask you any questions at all. Some very simple templates work this way (e.g.: the one that generates a basic program layout).
- When a question appears, read the question very carefully, then read any additional prompting information very carefully, and finally, if you still have any doubts use the HELP function key.
- Follow instructions to the letter. The concept of an application template is to generate RDML programs for you in a very quick and very consistent matter.
The generalized nature of the Application Template facility and its ability to be site definable, mean that absolutely precise validation of your answers is often not practicable.
Incorrect answers will cause no real problems, other than to cause RDML code that will either not compile, or not execute correctly, to be generated.
This is not a real problem, but it means that you will most probably have to then fix it by manual editing of the RDML code.
- Most templates allow you to "back up" to a previously answered question and change your answer. To do this use the Cancel function key. Do not do this if the prompt indicates you should not do it.