7.2.1 Batch Operation

Since there is a strong desire for batch operation from the user community, SIESTA's module concept has taken provision to support all features of its modules -- except from graphical user interface (GUI) features -- also in batch operation. The separation of GUI functionality calls for a careful implementation of the system components. The implementation of SIESTA's core modules represents generic design patterns which demonstrate how this separation can be maintained, and these design patterns are transferable to the implementation of new modules.

Notifications (see Appendix B) offer the possibility of loose coupling between the functional parts of a module and the GUI which establishes an interaction between the user and the module entities. Additionally, modules distinguish between files implementing GUI functionality, and files that do not. The former will be loaded depending on whether SIESTA is operating in batch or in GUI mode.