The Howdy Glossary

LotusScript is a scripting language tailored for enhancing and automating functionalities within Lotus Notes, now known as HCL Notes. It supports the development of database-driven applications in the Lotus Domino environment and utilizes syntax akin to Visual Basic for ease of use by developers familiar with VB. The language enables manipulation of objects on both server and client sides using COM, OLE, or DOM, supports structured programming with Try-Catch blocks for error management, multi-threading through Agents, and accommodates various data types including strings, integers, and variants.

Developed by Iris Associates—creators of Lotus Notes—LotusScript was later acquired by IBM. Featuring robust capabilities like effective exception handling with Try-Catch blocks and multithreading support via Agents, it distinguishes itself through its specialized focus in the realm of extending Lotus Notes applications within the Domino ecosystem. This specialization sets it apart from competitors like JavaScript, VBScript, Python, and PowerShell that offer broader applications across different platforms but may not provide the same level of integration specific to Lotus Notes.

The primary users of LotusScript are developers operating within the Lotus Domino environment who aim to automate tasks or extend functionalities in custom database-driven solutions tailored to specific business needs. Its similarities to Visual Basic make it accessible for those already versed in VB while its comprehensive features facilitate seamless object manipulation on both server and client sides. Thus positioned as a powerful tool within its niche ecosystem, LotusScript continues to be a vital resource for developing sophisticated applications in HCL Notes environments.