The Role of the Environment in Data Management

Active Data Repository

The Lawson data model includes an active data repository that makes system-wide information available to all tiers in the Environment during runtime.

The repository includes metadata on:

• Presentation definitions

• Information relationships

• Process definitions

• Logic definitions

• Security definitions

• Application server definitions

• Open application interfaces

Files in the repository include the product line dictionary file and the data area dictionary file for all product lines in the Environment as well as the GEN dictionary. The compiled programs holding the form and object rules are also in the repository. The business logic in the active repository ensures data integrity before the database is updated by Lawson application programs.

The GEN Product Line

The Environment has its own product line called GEN. It holds the data needed for administration, such as user profiles, product line names, and batch job definitions.

The GEN product line includes the following:

• Administrative forms, which enable administrators to perform tasks such as job scheduling, security setup, and report printing.

• User forms, which are created by customers to perform specific tasks, such as enabling users to change their own passwords.

• GEN data and data dictionary, which the system uses to manage features such as user profiles, product line names, and batch job definitions.