Variable Usage

[kschuster8]

I'm trying to figure if I can use variables or should use a global field. I'm in a multi user enviorment. What is the best way to maintain say a users account number through their entire session.

Edited September 11, 2006 by Guest

[Genx]

Either, Or.

Advantages of Global Var:

Less Trouble

Quicker to initially implement

Advantages of Global Fields:

Will work over multiple files unlike global variables which are limited within the current file.

[ThatOneGuy]

... and tacking onto Genx's Advantages of Global Fields, they can be used on the parent side of relationships. So, if you wanted to filter records based on a given user's account number, you'd need Global Fields to drive those relationships.

[Genx]

OH right, forgot that on

[Ender]

My take is that variables are best for things that are temporary, and need only be remembered for the duration of a script or a process. Globally stored fields are best for things that need to be remembered for the duration of the session, or for things that must be shown on screen, used as a relationship filter, or used for indirect record editing.