There are only two general settings for a DSD.

By default data is gathered asynchronously which means that more than one data group is executed at the same time, depending on the number of processors available to your server.

fData ensures that data groups are executed in the correct sequence, only starting one if all of those on which it is dependent have completed. fData also takes care of calculating dependencies (although an option is available to manually set dependencies).

Occasionally it is necessary to gather data synchronously, possibly for testing. This option lets you change the method.

You can see a graphical representation of the gathering sequence in the performance section of fTest.

A DSD must be designated as being for a purpose. This not only makes it easier to choose a DSD where you are asked to in various parts of fSeries but is also checked when an output is generated to ensure the data being used is appropriate. Choose any from:

• fPanels
• fDocs
• fSheets
• Menu - as the subject DSD in menus
• DSD - as the DSD referred to in data groups that access other DSDs
• Lookup - to gather lookup lists for use in selection criteria pages
• Abandon - to check whether data gathering should be abandoned
• Security - to check if a user is permitted and to gather details about a user (User Data)