(1) To copy data from an external file, using formats such as PC/IXF, DEL, WSF or ASC, into database tables. See also export.
(2) To bring information from one system or program into another.
(3) In ILE binder language, a reference to an external symbol defined in another module or program. See also export.
(4) In VisualAge RPG, a function that allows an application to use data that was created by another application. It usually involves some file conversion.
(5) The operation to enter previously exported logical volumes (LVOLs) residing on a stacked volume into a virtual tape server (VTS) library. After the list of LVOLs to import is written on an import list volume and the stacked volumes are entered, the import operation is initiated.
(6) The point at which an SCA module accesses an external service, (a service outside the SCA module) as if it was local. An import defines interactions between the SCA module and the service provider. An import has a binding and one or more interfaces.
(7) A development artifact that imports a service that is external to a module. See also import file.