Applications often have features in common. For example, you might often reuse features like the following:
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A processing package that calculates commissions or performs statistical analysis
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A Close button that performs a certain set of operations and then closes the window
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DataWindow controls that perform standard error checking
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A list that includes all departments
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A predefined file viewer that you plug into a window
If you find yourself using the same application feature repeatedly, you should define a user object: you define the user object once in the User Object painter and use it as many times as you need.
There are two main types of user objects: class and visual. Class user objects are also called nonvisual objects.
Examples of user objects
The PowerBuilder Code Examples contain many interesting user objects in PBEXAMUO.PBL. Take a look at them to get an appreciation for the power of user objects.
