DB2 Server for VSE & VM: Interactive SQL Guide and Reference

Chapter 7. Creating and Using Routines

A routine is a series of ISQL commands, SQL statements, or both, which is stored under an identifying name. When a routine is run, each command or statement in the routine is performed as if it had been typed from the keyboard. Routines save (and later run) frequently-used sequences of commands and statements, such as a series of ISQL SET commands that set certain operational characteristics.

Routines offer a number of features to users. In addition to using them to perform a frequently used set of commands or statements, you can:

• Define a profile routine that is run automatically when you start ISQL
• Use a routine to start one or more stored SQL statements
• Share routines with other users
• Use a routine to display and print query results.