How to Use PeopleTools ATT: Complete Guide

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced business environment, organizations need enterprise applications that are both flexible and reliable. PeopleSoft, one of Oracle’s flagship platforms, has long been used by companies to manage everything from human resources to finance and supply chain. At the heart of PeopleSoft lies PeopleTools ATT (Application Technology Tools), a framework designed to help businesses customize, integrate, manage, and extend their PeopleSoft applications with greater ease.

PeopleTools ATT provides developers and administrators with a comprehensive toolkit, making it possible to create new features, automate processes, integrate external systems, and optimize performance. Whether you are a technical consultant, developer, or system administrator, understanding how to use PeopleTools ATT effectively can greatly enhance the stability and adaptability of your PeopleSoft environment.

This guide will walk you through what PeopleTools ATT is, how to use it step by step, best practices, business benefits, common challenges, and frequently asked questions.

What Is PeopleTools ATT?

PeopleTools ATT (Application Technology Tools) is a collection of development and management utilities within PeopleSoft. It acts as the foundation that powers PeopleSoft applications, giving organizations the flexibility to adapt the system to their specific business needs.

It includes tools for:

• Designing application pages and components

• Writing and embedding business logic

• Running batch processes and reports

• Integrating with external systems through web services and APIs

• Managing user security, roles, and permissions

• Monitoring system performance

In short, PeopleTools ATT is the toolbox behind PeopleSoft, ensuring that applications can be built, deployed, and maintained efficiently.

Key Components of PeopleTools ATT

To understand how to use PeopleTools ATT, it’s important to break down its main components:

1. Application Designer

   • A graphical interface for creating or modifying application objects such as pages, records, fields, and menus.

   • Developers use it to design and organize the user interface and navigation flow.

2. PeopleCode

   • A proprietary scripting language used to add business logic, validations, and event triggers to applications.

   • Essential for customizing system behavior.

3. Application Engine

   • A framework for running batch programs and large data processing tasks.

   • Useful for automating multi-step jobs like payroll or mass data updates.

4. Integration Broker

   • The gateway for connecting PeopleSoft with external systems.

   • Supports web services, APIs, and messaging for real-time or batch data exchange.

5. Process Scheduler

   • Allows administrators to schedule, run, and monitor reports, processes, and jobs.

   • Ensures workflows run on time and reduces manual work.

6. Utilities (Data Mover, Query Manager, Security Admin)

   • Data Mover: For migrating data between environments.

   • Query Manager: For building ad hoc queries and reports.

   • Security Admin: For managing user roles, permissions, and access rights.

These modules work together to enable seamless development, customization, and system management.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use PeopleTools ATT

1. Prepare the Environment

Before working with PeopleTools ATT, ensure your system meets the technical requirements. This includes a supported database, application server, web server, and network configuration.

2. Install and Configure Domains

Use the PSADMIN utility to create and configure domains for the application server, process scheduler, and web server. Ensure that each domain can communicate with the database.

3. Set Up Security and Roles

Define users, roles, and permission lists to control who can access Application Designer, PeopleCode, or Integration Broker. Always follow the principle of least privilege.

4. Build Applications in Application Designer

• Create records, fields, and pages.

• Organize pages into components and navigation menus.

• Define relationships between records and components.

5. Add Business Logic with PeopleCode

Use PeopleCode to:

• Validate data entry

• Trigger actions when a page loads or a field changes

• Call APIs or integration services

6. Design Batch Jobs with Application Engine

For background tasks:

• Create an Application Engine program

• Define sections, steps, and actions

• Schedule jobs via the Process Scheduler

7. Integrate External Systems

Configure the Integration Broker to:

• Define service operations and routing rules

• Create handlers to process incoming and outgoing messages

• Enable secure communication with APIs and external platforms

8. Automate with Process Scheduler

Schedule reports, jobs, and recurring processes. Monitor their execution and troubleshoot errors using system logs.

9. Migrate Changes Safely

Use Change Assistant or Data Mover to migrate customizations between development, test, and production environments. Always test thoroughly before going live.

10. Monitor and Optimize Performance

Use monitoring tools, logs, and SQL traces to identify bottlenecks. Optimize queries, manage caching, and tune server configurations for better performance.

Best Practices for Using PeopleTools ATT

• Keep Customizations Minimal: Use delivered features wherever possible to simplify upgrades.

• Document Everything: Maintain records of changes, logic, and design for easier troubleshooting.

• Apply Naming Standards: Consistent naming conventions in PeopleCode and objects improve maintainability.

• Test Early and Often: Regular testing ensures stability and avoids production issues.

• Secure the Environment: Implement encryption, role-based security, and audit policies.

• Monitor Performance: Optimize SQL queries and monitor server load to prevent slowdowns.

• Stay Updated: Regularly apply patches and updates to keep PeopleTools secure and efficient.

Benefits of Using PeopleTools ATT

• Faster Development: Drag-and-drop design and integrated tools speed up application building.

• Improved Integration: Integration Broker enables seamless connectivity with APIs and other systems.

• Scalability: Applications can grow and adapt as business needs evolve.

• Lower Costs: Reduces reliance on external software by providing built-in utilities.

• Security and Control: Strong role management and auditing help ensure compliance.

• Consistency Across Environments: Change Assistant and Data Mover ensure smooth migration of updates.

Challenges to Be Aware Of

• Steep Learning Curve: Developers need time to master PeopleCode and system architecture.

• Complex Upgrades: Customizations can complicate the upgrade process.

• Performance Issues: Poorly designed queries or processes may slow down the system.

• Governance Needs: Without clear policies, customizations can become difficult to manage.

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Conclusion

Mastering PeopleTools ATT is essential for organizations that rely on PeopleSoft. By understanding its components—Application Designer, PeopleCode, Application Engine, Integration Broker, and Process Scheduler—you gain the ability to customize, integrate, and optimize enterprise applications effectively.

The process involves preparing the environment, designing applications, embedding business logic, running batch processes, integrating external systems, and monitoring performance. Following best practices—such as minimizing customizations, applying strict security, and thorough testing—ensures smooth operations and easier upgrades.

While there may be challenges like a steep learning curve and complex deployments, the benefits outweigh the hurdles. PeopleTools ATT empowers businesses to stay agile, cut costs, and maintain control over their ERP systems. For organizations looking to future-proof their PeopleSoft investment, learning how to use PeopleTools ATT is not just beneficial—it’s essential.

 FAQs

1. What does PeopleTools ATT stand for?
It stands for Application Technology Tools, a suite within PeopleTools that supports development, customization, integration, and system management.

2. How do I access PeopleTools ATT?
You typically log into your organization’s PeopleSoft environment using provided credentials, with access granted based on your role and permissions.

3. Can PeopleTools ATT connect with external applications?
Yes, it uses Integration Broker to connect with APIs, web services, and third-party systems.

4. Do I need programming knowledge to use PeopleTools ATT?
Basic knowledge of SQL and scripting helps, but many tasks can be done with GUI tools. PeopleCode is required for advanced customizations.

5. How can I migrate changes safely in PeopleTools ATT?
Use Change Assistant or Data Mover to move objects between development, test, and production environments while maintaining consistency.