Routines

Routines are database objects that can encapsulate programming and database logic that can be invoked like a programming sub-routine from a variety of SQL interfaces. Routines can be system-defined, which means that they are provided with the product, or user-defined, which means that users can create them. Routines can be implemented using SQL statements, a programming language, or a mix of both. Different types of routines provide different interfaces that can be used to extend the functionality of SQL statements, client applications, and some database objects.

For a complete view of the types of routines and implementations that are supported by DB2®, refer to the topic: Types of routines.

The many features of routines are part of why there are so many useful applications of routines.