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Macros for Connexion Client

Introduction

Listed below are a few of the frequently asked questions about macros.

What are macros?

Macros are short programs that automate routine tasks. OCLC's Connexion Client uses macros and allows you to record or write your own using BASIC programming functions and statements.

Why do catalogers use macros?

Macros save time and ultimately increase your workflow by automating commands catalogers may use repeatedly. For example, you may enter in today's date along with other local notes in a 949 MARC field. Instead of manually typing in today's date, you can write a macro that inserts this data automatically in every record. Macros also increase accuracy and reduce the amount of mouse clicking and keystrokes.

Are there times when it would be better to use constant data than use macros?

Using constant data records also saves time, increases accuracy and reduces keystrokes, but constant data can only be used for data that never changes. Macros can be used for data that is always changing. Using the example listed above, I may need to insert today's date in a 949 MARC field. As today's date always changes, I could not create a constant data record for this action.

Minitex Support for Macros

Handouts

Exercise 1: Using the Macro Recorder (PDF; 77 KB)
Exercise 2: Adding a Macro to Connexion from an External Source (PDF; 84 KB)
A Guide to Using OCLC Macro Language Resources (PDF; 81 KB)
The intent of this guide is to make your transition into macro writing easy. It contains a list of what tutorials to use as a beginner, a list of quick reference materials and where to go for additional help.
Examples of Macros (PDF; 76 KB)
This is a short list to give you an idea of the types of macros that catalogers use in Connexion Client.
A Macro Dissected: Adding data to a 590 MARC field (PDF; 62 KB)
This handout is intended to give you a detailed look at the OCLC macro language with a practical example.

OCLC Support for Macros

At OCLC's Web site, you can share macros, browse macros from other recommended Web sites, view archived presentations on using macros and view manuals and tutorials to help you write your own macros for Connexion Client.

OCLC's Support for Macros Web page

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