Annotations are a methodology to capture information in the source code that extends the ABL language syntax. Validation is available to confirm that the information entered adheres to the pre-defined syntax and format.

At a minimum the required annotation is simply a declaration that the ABL procedure is to be publicly available. The best practice is to add annotations to the ABL source code, through the use of Progress Developer Studio for OpenEdge Annotation wizard. However, annotations can be added to the source by whatever means the developer uses to create the source code. For information on the syntax of a Sonic ESB annotation, or instructions on adding annotations with OpenEdge, see OpenEdge Development: Messaging and ESB.