You use application message catalogs whenever you want to keep application output messages separate from the program code. This separation is done so that messages can be altered without having to recompile the program source. Message catalogs are also used when you intend to create efficient, modularized programs. When the output messages are physically, as well as logically, grouped together they are easy to keep consistent and current.
Application message catalogs are often used for Native Language
Support (NLS). When applications are used in many countries and
translated into many languages, the messages that are output to the
user are translated (localized) into the native language. Text, such
as prompts, commands, and messages intended for the user's native
language interaction with an application, is stored in message
catalogs. Applications are localized without changing the program
code. For information about message catalog translation, refer to the
Native Language Programmer's Guide (32650-90022).
