Abstract: A method, system and computer readable storage medium for storing instructions for processing COBOL language record description entries that specify data items that include a varying length characteristic are provided. The method includes providing COBOL language record description entries that specify data items that include a varying length characteristic and a plurality of subfields including a length subfield. The method further includes processing the COBOL language record description entries to create at least one of a compiled specification and compiled data. The subfields are treated as a single composite field, and the length subfield is automatically set to the appropriate corresponding value during processing.

Abstract: A method and system for dynamically controlling functionality of an application program and storage medium for storing instructions which effectuate the method are provided The method includes providing a data structure containing modifiable data which indicates current functionality of the application program. The method also includes providing a set of common instructions and first and second sets of optional instructions. The application program has a first functionality when the application program includes the set of common instructions and the first set of optional instructions. The application program has a second functionality different from the first functionality when the application program includes the set of common instructions and the second set of optional instructions. The method further includes modifying the modifiable data if a desired functionality for the application program is different from the current functionality of the application program.

Abstract: A method and system for processing data contained within COBOL or PL/I record description entries and storage medium for storing instructions which effectuate the method are provided. The method includes receiving a first COBOL or PL/I software instruction which includes a first set of criteria for a first data field of data fields of the entries and having a generic subscript/occurrence for the first data field. The method further includes automatically processing all occurrences of the first data field within the record description entries based on the first set of criteria.