We are using the DSTBULK API to create distribution lists in report caster. I receive an error if I use the function argment R (for replace) instead of (C for create) if the distribution list doesn't exist when I attempt to run my procedure. Using C if it already exists, doesn't seem to do anything. I'd like to have it overwrite the distribution list if it exists and create it if it doesn't.

Is there a way I can check programmatically to see if the distribution lists exists so I know what argument to send the API?

Thanks,
shelz.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: shelzalee,

Not being a Report caster expert, but I'm inclined to say no.
It may be an option to always do a create first, if only with a single email address, never ind if there's an error or not, and then do the replace for the list with the actual values.

I believe that would work. I don't really like it. I'm going to be disappointed if there really isn't a way to access distribution list information? I'll leave this open for a bit longer. If I don't get any other responses. I'll close out. Thanks GamP.

Hi,

Just in case, here is some more information from our technical staff that may be useful:

* Since you are using the Servlet API which DSTBULK is a component of they might want to first use another call, DSTDLLIST, to retrieve the list. If they successfully retrieve the list then the Replace option should be used. If you cannot retrieve the list then the Create option should be used.

As an alternative to the Servlet API there is the Java API which could be used to check for the existence of a Distribution List before trying to create or replace it.

Another option is to query the ReportCaster repository directly to see if the Distribution List in question already exists.

Hopefully this helps. Please feel free to open a case if necessary.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Butler