Abstract: A method of controlling processing in a computer, particularly real-time processing, is performed using computer data objects. Real-time or other input data received from data sources is classified according to pre-stored control data. The control data defines which data source provides the real-time data, how the real-time data is to be processed, where the real-time data is to be stored and what reports the real-time data will be used in. The classified real-time data becomes a computer data object with its associated control data and all subsequent processing is performed on the computer data object.