Re: Usefulness of O-specs (Re: RPG Cycle)

James Lampert wrote:

At any rate, though, I have said (twice now; this will be the third
time) that I've never been able to make constructive use of O-specs
(other than those generated by the compiler) or level breaks (other than
the aformentioned sticking an LR in the LEVEL column, for statements to
be executed when The Cycle is completed).

Sounds like you're expecting an answer.

O-specs only good for LR time output ?

Excluding the compiler (DDS) generated specs, O-specs can be used for
program defined reports and database output. For external database
updates, they can limit record updates/adds to certain fields.

Like the cycle, program defined O-specs are a bit depreciated. DDS is
preferred for reports, but given the wide spread use of O-specs, I'd say
the RPG community is divided on this one. Certainly more RPG
programmers use O-specs than the cycle.

That doesn't mean I haven't tried. Nor does it mean that I'm afraid to
learn. Some of us do not automatically assume that if something is old,
it must be obsolete.

But it could be. If you're optimistic, you should believe in progress.

This shouldn't be a purist thing (RPG means using the Cycle and all the
orginal features). RPG has evolved far beyond it's roots. I wouldn't
get hung up with trying to make use of O-specs. If you don't need 'em
than don't use 'em. But if you must, try writing a report with O-specs.
Usually, it takes less time that the equivalent report in DDS.


Keith