Re: File encapsulation

Scott,

This does provide two benefits.

First, if the file format changes (new fields could be added or maybe even
the file record gets split into two files instead of one) you can modify
this File I/OF driver program.  The program could continue to return the old
format even though it's reading the newer file(s) format.  As a result you
isolate a file change in the system to this one File I/O driver program (or
procedure).

Secondly, you can make the conversion process much easier.  You have a
replacement File I/O driver that returns the newer format.  You can take
your time converting the calling programs from the older program to the
newer program.  Maybe some calling programs don't care about the new format
changes.  They stay with the older File I/O driver - you've saved yourself
some unnecessary conversion effort.  No need for a 'big bang' when you
convert the physical file to the newer format.  The process becomes much
more manageable.

Paul