OPX05 – Generate at runtime

In OPX05, we take a look at one of the most dangerous little switches in Automic: ‘Generate at activation time’ vs. ‘Generate at runtime’. Using real operator scenarios, you will learn why workflows get stuck, why tasks have already done something despite a skip action, or why variable values do not arrive where you expect them to. All exercises run in a specially prepared PEM Lab with ready-made objects – you observe, analyse and understand without having to build anything yourself. A course that helps you identify problems more quickly and draw the right conclusions in operation.

Generating at runtime in Automic – why this switch makes such a big difference

In Automic there are settings that appear inconspicuous – and yet have huge effects in operation. One of them is the difference between „Generate at activation time“ and „Generate at runtime“. When workflows suddenly remain in status Preparing for a long time, tasks seem to have already done something even though they haven't actually started (or were even skipped), or variable values don't contain what you expect, the cause is very often exactly here. OPX05 shows you why.

A course from the operator's perspective

This course is designed as a hands-on lab for Automic operators. You don't need to create objects, write scripts or change workflows. Instead you observe prepared scenarios in the Process Monitoring, analyze reports and learn to correctly classify the behavior of running objects. The focus is on understanding typical operational situations – including errors, delays and unexpected side effects.

What you'll learn in OPX05

In this course you'll learn, among other things:
  • the difference between generation at activation time and at runtime
  • why workflows may start at different speeds depending on the generation method
  • why subworkflow monitors sometimes do not yet exist
  • why variable values appear „frozen“ for some tasks
  • how skip logic and script generation influence each other
  • when PromptSets appear – and why that can be problematic
  • which pitfalls even experienced Automic users regularly encounter

Working in the specially prepared PEM Lab

All exercises are carried out in a specially prepared PEM Lab. This lab already contains all required objects, workflows and scripts. You work exclusively with predefined exercise objects that deliberately demonstrate typical problem cases. This means:
  • no setup required
  • no risk to production systems
  • realistic scenarios as they occur in real operations
This allows you to fully concentrate on observing, understanding and interpreting.

Recommended prior knowledge

OPX05 builds on a basic understanding of the execution phases of Automic objects. If terms like activation, generation or runtime are not yet fully familiar to you, we recommend taking the course OP07 – Executing Objects beforehand, which explains exactly these fundamentals. OPX05 helps you truly grasp one of the most important but often misunderstood mechanisms in Automic – and to quickly recognize in the future when a task is really doing something and when it is not.

Learn Automic with PEM!

Would you like to learn more about Automic without having to travel across the country for workshops? At PEM, you decide when and how you want to continue your education! In interactive courses, tutorials and videos, you will learn everything you need to know about Automic – and more! And we are always there for you via comment function or email.

Does that sound interesting? Then get started today with PEM, Automic Training 2.0 and year-round Automic support!

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FAQ about Automic Training on PEM

PEM is the most innovative and fastest growing Automic learning platform. It offers PEM members a comprehensive range of online training courses that can be accessed 24/7 and from anywhere. The platform includes dozens of videos and interactive courses and is aimed at beginners and professionals alike.