Abstract: A system for operating a computing machine is provided with a plurality of executable functions, each being identified by a respectively associated function symbol. In one embodiment, the data stored in a memory of the computing machine is organized into files, each such file further containing additional data which corresponds to one of the function symbols, and a selected file name which identifies the file with respect to which the executable function is to operate. In a preferred embodiment, one of the function symbols in the file is selected, and execution thereof is subsequently commanded. Preferably, the machine is returned to a state which permits selection of a further executable function. Thus, the invention forms a coupling between a transaction process and an execution process, in the form of a loop.