After analyzing the host program and data file, the next step is to build the object file and map it to the fields in the data file. This can be done using a text editor, such as Notepad, but it is commonly built through the interface in Statement Composition. The exact order and placement of objects relative to the host file is critical. Follow these steps to open the Object Definition Editor and begin creating the .odf file.
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Within Statement Composition, select Objects | Create/edit object definitions... The Create/edit object definitions dialog box is displayed.
If an .odf file is not loaded, the Edit the current object definitions button is not active, and the Create new object definition file is selected by default.
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Click OK to start creating the new .odf file. The Statement Designer - Object Definition Editor is displayed.
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Select Object definitions in the Tasks window and either select Modify... from the right-click menu or click the Modify icon. The Modify object definition collection dialog box is displayed.
The Parse file type, Record ID length and Date format hint define the type of host file, the length of the record ID and instructions for parsing dates. The defaults are Standard file type, four character Record ID length and no date hint.
You now have an empty Object Definition File to which you add object and field definitions.