Msg: 3358 *Conference*
10-22-92 08:59:19
From: RICHARD HANSON
To : HOWARD WAGGNER
Subj: REPLY TO MSG #3357 (DATA FILES)
I understand about being self employed. I, too, suffer that fate, having never worked for anyone as an employee during my adult life. Frankly, at almost 44 years of age, I don't think I'll become someone's employee anyday soon. Sounds like you're doing batch mode processing. It's essential to structure the data file so every record has the exact same number of fields. If the records vary, then you need to employ an end-of-record flag, like 999--a typical end-of-record flag. Where records grow, and grow, and grow in size, it's a good idea to process current needs based on current data, letting past data accumulate in a catch-all file (Aka: history file). This method requires establishing a master file for your customer records, along with a customer number, a separate current transactions file, and a history file. During the preparation period, the transaction file is developed. On the reporting date, the transaction file and master file are coordinated, the report generated, the master file updated, the transaction file cleared and dumped into the history file. The dumping process should be a separate program that you run after making sure that your batch file results are correct. How to begin such a process? Draw it out on paper using simple diagrams. Once you understand its dynamics, then it's time to write your program and test it; referring back to your diagram as a check for both process and concept, i.e., your process may be sound but the foundation on which you based your process may be wrong. Adjustments are all part of the fun of building a productive, batch mode system. Note: The batch mode system, developed in the 50's, pioneered by IBM, remains the highest form of computing productivity, today. I've done a lot of systems work, and teach systems development in the evenings at Columbia College, concurrently with running this club. Hope these insights assist your systems development. Good luck. -Rick-