An interface class is like a template that developers can use to help standardize how a set of classes are defined. An interface class defines the PUBLIC data members and methods required for a set of classes. PUBLIC data members can include temp-tables, datasets, or properties, but not variables.

Defining and developing a class that uses an interface class includes a number of tasks:

  • Define the interface class that will be used by the class.

  • Define the class using the interface class.

  • Implement the constructors, methods, and destructor of the class.

Note: An interface class is not a superclass in an inheritance hierarchy. It is simply a way to provide a standardized template for how a set classes are to be implemented. These classes do not need to be part of a specific hierarchy. Because classes that are based on an interface class, do not inherit from the interface class, all members of the interface class must be PUBLIC.