Structures

In the ABAP Dictionary, the structure of the data occurring in computations within programs or when copying data between programs can be defined globally. This is done by defining a structure. A structure is defined like a table in the ABAP Dictionary and can then be accessed from within ABAP programs. A change in the definition of the structure in the ABAP Dictionary automatically takes effect in all programs.

Whereas data in tables is stored on the database, structures only contain data temporarily during program runtime.

Structures are defined (almost) exactly like tables; the only difference is that no database tables are generated from them. The same data elements and domains can be used in structures as in tables. Even tables can be included (see Substructures). This ensures the greatest possible consistency in the data definition, even in complex programs which internally link information from several tables.

Structures are used especially to define the data at the interface of module pools and screens and to define the parameter types of function modules.

The central definition of structures which are used more than once make it possible for them to be changed centrally. The active ABAP Dictionary then makes this change wherever required.

See also:

Creating Structures

Deleting Structures