Search Results fnd_documents_short_text

The FND_DOCUMENTS_SHORT_TEXT table is a critical component of Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) 12.1.1 and 12.2.2, serving as a repository for short text documents within the Oracle Applications framework. This table is part of the Oracle Application Object Library (FND) and is designed to store textual content associated with various business entities, such as descriptive flexfields, concurrent program parameters, or other application-specific documentation. Below is a detailed analysis of its structure, functionality, and integration within Oracle EBS.

Table Structure and Key Columns

The FND_DOCUMENTS_SHORT_TEXT table consists of several key columns that define its purpose and usage:

• DOCUMENT_ID: A unique identifier for each document entry, often referenced by other tables or modules.
• TITLE: A brief description or title of the document.
• SHORT_TEXT: The primary column storing the actual short text content, typically limited to a few hundred characters.
• CREATION_DATE and LAST_UPDATE_DATE: Timestamps tracking when the document was created or last modified.
• CREATED_BY and LAST_UPDATED_BY: User identifiers for audit purposes.

Purpose and Usage

This table is primarily used to store supplementary textual information that does not require extensive storage space. Common use cases include:

• Descriptive Flexfields (DFFs): Storing additional context or instructions for flexfield attributes.
• Concurrent Program Documentation: Providing brief descriptions or usage notes for concurrent programs.
• Application-Specific Notes: Capturing short annotations or metadata for various EBS modules.

Integration with Oracle EBS Modules

The FND_DOCUMENTS_SHORT_TEXT table is tightly integrated with other Oracle EBS components:

• Oracle Application Object Library (FND): It leverages FND's security and auditing features.
• Flexfields: Often referenced by descriptive flexfields to provide contextual help or labels.
• Concurrent Processing: Used to store program descriptions visible in the Concurrent Manager interface.

Technical Considerations

• Data Volume: Due to its design for short text, the table is not suited for large documents or binary data.
• Indexing The DOCUMENT_ID column is typically indexed for efficient joins with related tables.
• API Usage: Oracle provides PL/SQL APIs (e.g., FND_DOCUMENTS_PKG) for safe interaction with this table.

Customization and Extensions

While Oracle discourages direct modifications to this table, it can be extended via:

• Custom Columns: Adding application-specific attributes through descriptive flexfields.
• APIs: Using documented Oracle APIs to extend functionality without altering the base table.

Conclusion

The FND_DOCUMENTS_SHORT_TEXT table plays a vital role in Oracle EBS by providing a structured way to manage short textual content across applications. Its integration with core EBS components and adherence to Oracle's architectural standards make it a reliable solution for documentation needs while maintaining system performance and data integrity.