Interchange object data base index which eliminates the need for private copies of interchange documents files by a plurality of application programs

摘要

The need for private copies of an interchange document file in a computer system is eliminated by building a common architected index characterized in that (1) it includes selected indexable elements each having sufficient associated pointers for environment and resource specifications to be accessed as stand-alone entities and (2) is structured to be handled by all application programs or processes understanding the interchange protocol. Normal work with a file requires reading the entire document file and building a process' own index. This requires excessive time and takes up storage which could be used for other purposes. By building an architected document index with associated pointers in turn associated with each indexable element, any desired element of the document can be readily addressed by many different application program.