mrc Documentation
michaels, ross & cole, ltd.
http://www.mrc-productivity.com/

When to Overwrite the XML and HTML?

When a user first begins to use the m-Power interface, one of the biggest questions they have is what to do when they come to this screen:

This screen is seen whenever someone tries to recompile an application that already exists. Our logic checks to see if generated code already exists on the server, and if it does, we check to see how you want to proceed. Of course, we will update the back-end Java code to ensure your latest changes within the Application Options screens are included, but we need to check with you to see how to handle the .HTML presentation files and the .XML Application Property files.

Ideally, you make any necessary changes within Application Options, compile, then saving m-Painter and HTML changes until last. However, that rarely happens. Because of this, this document was created to help give you a better idea of how you should respond to these two questions

Overwrite Existing HTML Skeletons?

This question specifically addresses the output page(s) of your servlets. Specifying ‘Yes’ to overwrite will remove any changes you have made within m-Painter to the HTML or WYSISWYG view.

If you make changes that will not affect the look of your application, you can specify “No” for this option. This could include:

· Creating or modifying an Edit Code

· Changing the logic of a calculation

· Adding an External Object

· Changing the way an application joins

However, there are some changes that do require you to specify “Yes” for this option. This includes:

· Adding a new field and wanting it displayed to the screen

· Adding a dropdown box

· Changing the column headings descriptions

· Reordering Fields

There is a very useful tip that can save countless hours regarding overwriting the HTML Skeleton. If you have spent a long time in m-Painter for an application, you probably don’t want to overwrite the HTML. If you need to a field, you can always add the field through the interface, but specify “No” to not overwrite the HTML. Then, open m-Painter. You will not see your field, but you can still include it by using the “Insert Data Field” icon in the toolbar:

Select the field you wish to include to the HTML and select the level (Reports only). Even though you choose not to overwrite the HTML, the field is available to you because the back end Java code is aware of it’s existence.

Additionally, if you need to Change column heading or reorder fields, you can do both of these things within m-Painter. If you need assistance with this, please do not hesitate to contact support @ 630.916.0662 or at support@mrc-productivity.com.

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Overwrite Existing Application Property File?

This question specifically address the Application Property .XML file. This file controls things such as:

· How many record to show on page?

· Should Advanced Sort or Advanced Search be turned on?

· Should you do any case conversion within the SQL statement?

· Specify the maximum numbers allowed for a dropdown list?

· Should the Splash page be displayed for reports?

· Etc…

There are only two times when this option must be set to Yes:
- When you change Templates
- When you make a mistake and forget how to correct it. Setting this back to “Yes” will return the Properties file to the default setting.