Words Online Modernization Guide

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.

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.

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.

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.

The primary configuration file is the Definition File, which maps CICS screens and fields to specific help text entries. This file defines the rules for displaying help based on the application context.

The most common operations include defining help text, mapping help text to CICS screens, and displaying help text to users. The syntax for mapping help text involves specifying the CICS screen ID and the corresponding help text ID in 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.

Words Online uses a repository, which can be a VSAM file or a database, to store help text. The Definition File is typically stored as a sequential file or a PDS member.

Words Online reduces the need for developers to embed help text directly into application code. This simplifies application maintenance and allows help text to be updated independently of the application.

By centralizing help text, Words Online ensures consistency across different CICS applications. This improves the user experience and reduces confusion.

Words Online allows help text to be updated without requiring application downtime. This ensures that users always have access to the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Words Online integrates with CICS security to control access to help text. User authentication is handled by CICS, and Words Online uses this information to determine which help text to display.

Words Online supports standard CICS authentication methods, such as user IDs and passwords. It does not implement its own authentication mechanisms.

Words Online uses the CICS access control model to restrict access to help text. This ensures that only authorized users can view sensitive information.

Words Online does not encrypt help text. Security relies on the underlying CICS security mechanisms.

Words Online provides logging capabilities to track access to help text and identify potential security issues. These logs can be used for auditing and compliance purposes.

Words Online is administered through a CICS transaction. This transaction allows administrators to define help text, map help text to CICS screens, and manage user access.

User management is handled by CICS. Words Online relies on CICS to authenticate users and control access to resources.

Words Online provides monitoring capabilities to track the performance of the help system. This allows administrators to identify and resolve potential issues.