Macros
The OCLC Connexion Client uses its very own built-in macro language, better known as the OCLC Macro Language or OML. Unlike Macro Express, which is primarily used for programs with no macro functionality, is easy to use between programs, and is easier for the non-programmer to create macros in, OML is primarily used within and designed for the Connexion Client environment and has code that looks and functions like a full-fledged programming language. In many ways, OML is very similar to Visual Basic, Microsoft Word Basic, and earlier versions of the Basic programming language.
The most important feature of OML is that it contains an object class of functions that work directly with the Connexion Client. This is an important distinction to make when comparing OML with Macro Express or other third-party macro software. A Macro Express macro functions within the Connexion Client environment just like it would in a SirsiDynix Symphony WorkFlows environment. In other words, it might require a complicated series of tabbing through a bibliographic record, possibly reading data on the way to find out where it is within the record, and the user may be required to position their cursor prior to running, otherwise the macro could cause disastrous results. It's like looking for a piece of cheese in a maze. On the other hand, an OML macro doesn't need to do any of this. It knows where the cheese is.
The documentation on this site will only provide the basics of some very simple OML macros. These primarily include adding fields to a bibliographic record and how to assign the macro to a shortcut key or a user tool.
