Understanding Functions
The Fields and Functions program (P186101) enables programmers and consultants to access field and function definitions that are used throughout the Timecard Automation module. A field is an area in which the system displays a specific piece of information. A field can be either an input-capable field or a display field, for which the system retrieves the information from another part of the system. For example, the TIN (taxpayer identification) field displays taxpayer identification numbers. A function is a calculation with variables that the system uses to perform specific actions. For example, you can use the timecard rate function on its own or in a formula to find employees' timecard rates.
To use different fields and functions in the Timecard Automation module, you must first register the field or the function in the Fields and Functions program. The fields in the F060116, F06116, and F0618 tables are preregistered in the system. Several additional functions have also been registered in the Fields and Functions program.
The system includes several functions for calculating common methods of determining hourly rates and hours worked. When you create a timecard template, overtime rule set, or retroactive pay rule, you can use one or more of these functions. Because each function is specific to a field in a specific program, the system limits the available functions to those that are applicable to the calling program. For example, the function that is available for calculating the hourly rate for a timecard template is different from the function that is available for calculating the hourly rate for a retroactive pay rule.
You can use a function alone, or you can create a formula that includes one or more functions. Use the Fields and Functions program (P186101) to create custom formulas. You can also use this program to validate and test a formula before you begin using it.
Occasionally, you might need a function that is not included with the system. In this case, you can customize the system by adding a new function. Typically, you create custom functions using named event rules through the Business Function Design Aid tool, which you access from the Object Management Workbench (OMW). You can also create custom business functions using C programming. Programmers or consultants typically create custom business functions. Oracle recommends that you contact the system administrator for assistance with creating custom functions. After you create a custom function, you must register it for use in the applicable Timecard Automation program. Registering the function enables you to access it from the applicable program.
To simplify the process of creating formulas for calculating hourly rates and hours worked, the Timecard Automation module includes several predefined functions. You can use these functions alone or include them in formulas. These functions include:
Hours worked function for timecard templates.
Hours worked function for retroactive pay rules.
Hourly rate function for timecard templates.
Hourly rate functions for retroactive pay rules.
Hourly rate functions for overtime accumulator rules.
Custom overtime rules functions.
To meet the specific needs of the organization, you can also create custom functions. Each function uses a data structure, which lists the data item name, the input or output status, and a description of the data item.