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DataFlex is a high-level, object-oriented, 4GL programming language developed by Data Access Corporation. It is primarily used for building database applications in Windows, Web and mobile environments. DataFlex provides developers with a robust development environment that includes a visual design tool, a comprehensive class library, and a set of pre-built components for rapid application development. It supports both SQL and ISAM databases. DataFlex is known for its speed, flexibility, and ease of use in developing business applications.

Ask the right questions secure the right DataFlex talent among an increasingly shrinking pool of talent.

First 20 minutes

General DataFlex app knowledge and experience

The first 20 minutes of the interview should seek to understand the candidate's general background in DataFlex application development, including their experience with various programming languages, databases, and their approach to designing scalable and maintainable systems.

How would you define a DataFlex workspace?

A DataFlex workspace is a collection of related projects. It is a container that holds all the files and resources needed for a particular application.

What are the key features of DataFlex?

Key features of DataFlex include its database independence, strong data dictionary, embedded SQL database, and its ability to create web, mobile, and Windows applications.

Describe the difference between DataFlex and other programming languages.

DataFlex is a 4GL, object-oriented programming language that is specifically designed for developing database applications. It differs from other languages in its database independence, strong data dictionary, and its ability to create web, mobile, and Windows applications.

How would you create a new project in DataFlex?

To create a new project in DataFlex, you would use the 'New Project' wizard in the Studio. You would specify the project name, location, and type, and then the wizard would create the necessary files and structure for you.

What are the steps to connect a DataFlex application to a database?

To connect a DataFlex application to a database, you would first define the database in the Data Dictionary. Then, you would use the Database Connect command to establish the connection.

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What you’re looking for early on

Does the candidate have a solid understanding of DataFlex?

Has the candidate demonstrated problem-solving skills?

Is the candidate able to communicate effectively?

Does the candidate have experience with similar projects?

Next 20 minutes

Specific DataFlex development questions

The next 20 minutes of the interview should focus on the candidate's expertise with specific backend frameworks, their understanding of RESTful APIs, and their experience in handling data storage and retrieval efficiently.

Describe the difference between a DataFlex View and a Dialog.

A View in DataFlex is a visual representation of a data structure, while a Dialog is a window that is used to interact with the user. Views are typically used to display and edit data, while Dialogs are used to gather input from the user.

How would you handle errors in a DataFlex application?

Errors in a DataFlex application can be handled using the OnError event. This event is triggered whenever an error occurs, and you can write code to handle the error in whatever way is appropriate for your application.

What are the steps to deploy a DataFlex web application?

To deploy a DataFlex web application, you would first compile the application in the Studio. Then, you would copy the compiled files to your web server. Finally, you would configure your web server to serve the application.

Describe the difference between a DataFlex embedded database and an external database.

A DataFlex embedded database is a database that is included with the DataFlex system and does not require any additional software to use. An external database, on the other hand, is a separate database system that DataFlex can connect to, such as SQL Server or Oracle.

How would you optimize a DataFlex application for performance?

Optimizing a DataFlex application for performance can involve a number of strategies, including optimizing database queries, reducing the amount of data transferred between the client and server, and using the Profiler tool to identify bottlenecks in your code.

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At this point, a skilled DataFlex engineer should demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, proficiency in DataFlex programming language, and knowledge of software development methodologies. Red flags include lack of hands-on experience, inability to articulate complex concepts, or unfamiliarity with standard coding practices.

Digging deeper

Code questions

These will help you see the candidate's real-world development capabilities with DataFlex.

What does the following DataFlex code do?
Move (Trim(psString)) to psString
This code trims leading and trailing spaces from the string variable 'psString'.
What will be the output of the following DataFlex code?
Procedure Test
    Integer iValue
    Move 10 to iValue
    Showln iValue
End_Procedure
This code will output the number '10'. It defines a procedure named 'Test', declares an integer variable 'iValue', assigns the value '10' to 'iValue', and then prints the value of 'iValue'.
What does the following DataFlex code do?
Procedure RemoveItem
    Integer iIndex
    Move 2 to iIndex
    Remove iIndex from gaList
End_Procedure
This code removes the second item from the array 'gaList'. It defines a procedure named 'RemoveItem', declares an integer variable 'iIndex', assigns the value '2' to 'iIndex', and then removes the item at the index 'iIndex' from the array 'gaList'.
What does the following DataFlex code do?
Procedure StartThread
    Handle hThread
    Get Create U_Thread to hThread
    Send Start to hThread
End_Procedure
This code creates and starts a new thread. It defines a procedure named 'StartThread', declares a handle variable 'hThread', creates a new thread and assigns its handle to 'hThread', and then starts the thread.

Wrap-up questions

Final candidate for DataFlex Developer role questions

The final few questions should evaluate the candidate's teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, assess their knowledge of microservices architecture, serverless computing, and how they handle DataFlex application deployments. Inquire about their experience in handling system failures and their approach to debugging and troubleshooting.

What are the steps to create a web service in DataFlex?

To create a web service in DataFlex, you would first define the web service in the WebApp project. Then, you would create a class for the web service and define the methods that the web service will provide. Finally, you would implement the methods in your class.

Describe the difference between a DataFlex class and an object.

In DataFlex, a class is a blueprint for creating objects. It defines the properties and methods that an object will have. An object, on the other hand, is an instance of a class. It has the properties and methods defined by the class, and it can also have its own unique properties and methods.

How would you implement security in a DataFlex application?

Security in a DataFlex application can be implemented at several levels. At the application level, you can use the Security Framework to control access to views and actions. At the database level, you can use database security features to control access to data. And at the network level, you can use SSL to secure data in transit.

DataFlex application related

Product Perfect's DataFlex development capabilities

Beyond hiring for your DataFlex engineering team, you may be in the market for additional help. Product Perfect provides seasoned expertise in DataFlex projects, and can engage in multiple capacities.

DataFlex Consultive assessments

DataFlex Application Conversion Assessment DataFlex Application Integration Assessment DataFlex Data & Database Integration Assessment

Custom DataFlex development projects

Custom DataFlex App Conversion DataFlex Custom App Development Process App UI Design for DataFlex Facelifts

Hiring guide for DataFlex Engineers

DataFlex Developer Hiring Guide

What you’re looking for early on

The ideal back-end app developer

What you’re looking to see on the DataFlex engineer at this point.

DataFlex Consultive assessments

Custom DataFlex development projects