CorVision Repository Cleanup

We process each custom file verifying the CorVision repository has the correct dataset id and  $INCLUDE references.  We verify that DEFINE variables in custom files are in CorVision's data dictionary.

Why? 

1. The CV2VB conversion uses the CorVision metadata to know which datasets and custom files to convert, and which datasets are referenced by which forms. 

2. VB.NET can't use '.' in field names.  We substitute '_' and build an old-name to new-name table.  VB.NET has reserved names allowed by CorVision - we make a short list of field names to resolve manually.

Custom Code Assessment

The CV2VB Assessment builds a browse-able cross-reference and concordance to all custom code.

Using the CV2VB Assessment Viewer, we identify all unsupported verbs, unknown syntax, 3GL-calls and VMS dependencies.  The viewer displays all custom files having a particular problem - and can open the custom file and position to the exact line where the problem is found, so it can be examined in context.

The Viewer is an inventory of what can not be mechanically converted.  If you use a CorVision verb which we don't yet fully support, we will implement it.  It presents a searchable inventory of all 3-GL calls and VMS dependencies which need equivalents in the new environment.

Order Processing Technologies provides a library of equivalents to many common 3GL calls and VMS dependencies such as Email, Printing, Batch Handling, Array Handling, Sequential IO, Process level Logicals and Symbols, PERFORM_BUILDER_SECTION, LIB$SPAWN, SET_BUILDER_VARIABLE, and GET_BUILDER_VARIABLE.

Initial Conversion  Screen Procedures

For each screen procedure:

• We import portions of your CorVision metadata specifications into the CV2VB repository, performing additional validations.  The import is repeated until all validations are successful.

• We import your converted custom files into VB.NET projects, and a code management system such as SourceSafe. 

• We convert your CorVision screen specifications into VB.NET WinForms or ASP pages.

• We generate XML data structures and code for your application, combining these with your converted custom logic and our CV2VB runtimes.  The result is uploaded to the server.

• We test using the WinForms client or the CV2VB ASP-client which contains no application-specific logic.

The screen portion of your application is fundamentally converted at this point - but may not yet operate perfectly.

Remediation

Remediation is the process of replacing all the 3GL calls and VMS dependencies with replacements to operate in the new world. 

Final Conversion

During Remediation, other conversions are occurring and being tested:

• Your HELP documentation is converted - A new web-based HELP system is built.

• Your QUERY definitions are converted to the CV2VB Query formats.

• Your CorVision Reports are converted to ActiveReports or another report writer.

• Your CorVision Custom Procedures are converted.

All this takes time, 6-12 months perhaps.  During this time your developers may be taking training in the new environments, you will be testing, and perhaps preparing for changing databases.

But your business has not stopped - and your CorVision applications can't stop either. 

The CV2VB process allows you to continue maintaining and upgrading your CorVision applications during the conversion project.

At the end of the project you freeze changes, and we take on the changed CorVision area again and reconvert.  A few new issues may arise, but your final applications will be ready for acceptance testing very quickly.

If you are using middleware for RMS, or if we have eliminated RMS files, your new applications can interoperate with older CorVision applications.

There is no big-bang, you can turn on desktops gradually.

No software needs to be installed on the client PCs (other than their accepting a signed download in their browser).  If there is a problem with the new applications, you may continue to use the older CorVision applications.

During this phase we turn over the development areas to you and provide orientation to your developers.

Order Processing Technologies provides a 90 day warrantee and support period after acceptance, and offers an annual support contract if desired.

You may maintain your converted applications by hand, or using the CV2VB tools supply.  We believe the CV2VB tools will help keep the high developer productivity you enjoyed under CorVision.