To create a generic part that can serve as the base part for derived parts, follow the basic steps in Creating a Message Part and follow the additional steps:
- On the General tab, leave the Base Part field blank.
- Place a check mark in the Only Derived box if you do not want this part to appear in the Messaging dialog's Select Part window or Part Quick Select link box.
- In other words, check this box if you only want this part used as the base part for derived parts.
- Select the appropriate type from the Type drop-down list. Typically, a generic base part is either a Script or Component-based part.
- Define the part as necessary.
- Select the Input Properties tab and add a sub-type record for each property or variable defined in the script or component.
- A derived part leverages the existing functionality of this base part and specifies values for these input properties.
- Place a check mark in the Required box for any input property that must be specified by a derived part to successfully use the base part.