FAQ’S on Data Structure

Question 1 What causes a Data Structure Mismatch Error when validating Event Rules for Report Design Aid (RDA) or Form Design Aid (FDA)?

This problem is caused when a developer makes a change to a data structure (for a form, report, or business function). Any line of Event Rules (ER) that calls the object whose data structure has changed needs to be clicked on and saved. If a line of ER is not clicked on and saved after the change has been made, errors will result upon the ER validation of the application or report.

When making data structure changes of this type, it is important to use the Cross Reference utility and locate all calls to the object that has been changed. Then the lines of ER that make the calls need to be manually corrected.

Generally this error can be corrected by locating the line of ER with the error, double clicking on the line, and pressing OK to update and save the event rule. For additional details on this error, refer to the KG document Data Structure Mismatch Error

Question 2 why are the directional arrows locked on a business function data structure preventing a change?

Generally, this error will be seen when making a code change that requires changes to a business function involving a data structure parameter.

·         Check out the data structure for that business function and go into the data structure design.

·         Change the directional indicator for the appropriate parameter(s) to a null by clicking on it.

·         After saving and exiting the data structure design, continue completing the code change.

Question 3 When defining a data structure for a business function should the parameters be required fields? Do the Input/Output arrows need to be set?

No. Defining parameters within the data structure to be required will cause the field to turn red if you put no value into this parameter when calling the business function (i.e. it will not be able to remain blank if you select to make it a required parameter)

Setting the Input/Output arrows are permanent and will not allow for changes when mapping values. By leaving the neutral symbol you will be able to define the direction at the time the business function is called within event rules.

Question 4 what is the difference between form, report and business function data structures?

The data structures are similar for form and report data structures. They are both created directly within the applicable design aid - Form Design Aid or Report Design Aid. The data structures are used to pass data when performing form or report interconnects within event rules.

The data structures for business functions are slightly different when they are created. They are created as separate objects within the Data Structure Design Aid. Also within the data structure for a business function the individual parameters can be set to be required, or not, when defining the data structure. Business Function data structures are used to pass data when making a call to a business function.