Understanding Application Classes and Packages

An application class is a PeopleCode program. Unlike traditional PeopleCode programs, application classes (in conjunction with application packages) provide a hierarchical structure to your PeopleCode programs and help you extend the common functionality of existing PeopleCode classes from one application to another.

An application package is a container for application subpackages and application classes. Using application packages, you can create custom classes that inherit the functionality of existing PeopleCode classes they extend. In addition, application packages facilitate programming development by offering a structure in which every class is clearly defined and its methods and properties are well organized.

Many PeopleSoft CRM applications enable you to plug in custom functionality by referencing an application class to be invoked. For example, when setting up configurable search, you can select an application class to run and perform custom processing before the search list is created.

See PeopleTools: PeopleSoft Application Designer Developer's Guide and PeopleTools: PeopleCode API Reference.