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Words Online

Macro 4 Supported z/OS
CICS Help Documentation and Training
Vendor
Macro 4
Categories
3
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Product Overview

Words Online is designed to create online help screens for CICS and z/OS applications without requiring modifications to the application code. The architecture consists of three main components: the Help Text Repository, the Definition File Processor, and the Display Manager. The Help Text Repository stores the actual help content.

The Definition File Processor interprets the mapping rules, linking CICS screens and fields to specific help text entries. The Display Manager handles the presentation of the help text to the user. Words Online integrates with CICS through standard interfaces, intercepting help requests and displaying the appropriate help text.

The primary configuration file is the Definition File, which defines the mapping rules. Key operations include defining help text and mapping it to CICS screens using the Definition File. Words Online does not expose a public API.

It operates through internal CICS interfaces and does not provide external access points for programmatic integration. Security relies on the underlying CICS security mechanisms. Competing products may offer different architectural approaches, such as a more distributed architecture or a web-based interface for managing help content.

Some competitors might also provide more extensive API capabilities for integration with other systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of Words Online?

Words Online allows users to create and display help text for CICS applications without modifying the application code. It uses a central repository for help text, which is then displayed based on the context of the CICS screen.

How does Words Online determine which help text to display?

Words Online uses a definition file to map help text to specific CICS screens or fields. When a user requests help, Words Online retrieves the appropriate text from its repository and displays it in a separate window or overlay.

What are the main components of the Words Online architecture?

The main components include the Help Text Repository, the Definition File Processor, and the Display Manager. The Help Text Repository stores the actual help content. The Definition File Processor interprets the mapping rules. The Display Manager handles the presentation of the help text to the user.

How does Words Online integrate with CICS applications?

Words Online integrates with CICS through standard CICS interfaces. It intercepts help requests and displays the appropriate help text. No modifications to the application code are required.

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