A Progress DataSet, or ProDataSet, is also commonly referred to as a dataset. The ProDataSet is a very powerful construct that widens and extends the functionality of temp-tables. A ProDataSet object is basically a collection of one or more member temp-tables. It also optionally contains a collection of data relationships among the member tables.

The benefits of using ProDataSets include:
  • Ability to group multiple temp-tables into a single dataset object.
  • Ability to define relationships between those tables.
  • Ability to associate a data source with each dataset or member temp-table.
  • Ability to track changes while manipulating the dataset data.
  • Ability to save the changed data back to the data source.
  • Ability to pass the dataset as a single parameter from one procedure to another, within a single ABL session or between sessions.
  • Simplified management of complex transactions.

For more information, see Introduction to the OpenEdge DataSet in Use ProDataSets.