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Abstract

A data message formatting program, method and system uses a script-driven, Output Description Language (ODL) program module. The ODL module interprets and executes instructions from an ASCII .ODL script file. The .ODL instructions and the ODL programming language cooperate with the output of a conventional data entry and display program module. The close coupling of the data structures of the data entry module and the ODL module provide a powerful means for automatically re-formatting data entered prior to transmission over a communication network. The .ODL file may be generated by a system administrator or user with a conventional text editor by following an Output Description Language Programming manual. The .ODL file and ODL module are designed to be used in combination with a Form Interpretive module (FIM) and corresponding form data file which are also installed on the system. The corresponding form data file is constructed with a corresponding Form Builder software Tool (FBT) which may be operated off line. The FIM is used to display and edit a set of form data elements which are to be entered and/or altered by a user of the system, prior to re-formatting and transmission of a data message incorporating the edited form data to a remote receiving site over a communication network. One embodiment of the ODL language is described. The ODL embodiment is designed to work compatibly with an FBT and FIM to permit a multiplicity of compatible pairs of .ODL and form data files to used to enter, modify and customize the format of data messages to be transmitted to the remote site. The FBT and FIM may be derived from commercially available software packages.

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First Claim