Re: Automated flow charting software

[Dan Star <danstar@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Bob Clarke 3rd x4502 wrote:
> 
> Our programming folks are looking for PC-based or AS400-based flowcharting
> software in order to automatically flow the logic of our Cobol/400 source
> code (Goes to show how long I've been out of programming - I wasn't even
> aware that such a product exists).  They have asked me to check with 'the
> list' to see if anyone might have any knowledge of such products and what
> they would recommend.
> 
> They have reviewed PowerStructure III (CyberMetrics), but found it does not
> meet their needs.  They are following up on Documint (BCD) and PathVu
> (Compushare) to determine if they will flow Cobol 400 running on the AS400
> or a PC Windows platform.
> 
> As always, any assistance would be appreciated.  TIA.
> 
> Regards,
> 
> Bob Clarke

Bob, you should check out AllClear.  I believe the company was just
bought by SPSS?.  It is a structured flow charting package.  The user
uses the package's "language" which has strict syntax to describe the
dependencies, actions, processes etc.  If your programs have well
defined logic, you may find the tool just what you nees.  I don't use
it, but a colleague of mine does.  From what I have seen it is
impressive and not very expensive (~$250).  

Last time I saw Visio, it was just a drawing package; no guarantee that
the diagram maps correctly to the logic.  AllClear IS different; if you
can describe the logic properly in the "language" then AllClear will
draw the proper diagram.  Check it out.


Dan Star
danstar@execpc.com
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