BAAN to Infor LN: Backward Compatibility and Migration Strategies
Infor LN evolved directly from BaanIV and BaanV, inheriting the 4GL language, table architecture, and session-based UI paradigm. However, each LN version introduced structural changes that break assumptions embedded in legacy BAAN customizations. Understanding the compatibility layer between BAAN and LN is essential for organizations migrating from BaanIV/V or maintaining legacy 4GL customizations within modern LN environments.
BAAN to LN Structural Changes
The transition from BaanIV to LN introduced changes in table naming conventions, session numbering, domain definitions, and the VRC package management system. While the 4GL language syntax remains largely compatible, the underlying runtime, database abstraction layer, and deployment mechanisms differ significantly. Legacy BAAN customizations must be assessed against these structural changes before migration.
- Table naming: BaanIV ttXXXnnn format evolved to LN's extended naming with additional module prefixes
- Session numbering: new session ranges added for LN-specific modules like ttiop (ION) and ttdmf (data migration)
- VRC package management: replaced BaanIV's BSE-based deployment with versioned package control and layered customization
- Database layer: LN supports SQL Server and Oracle with abstracted DDL versus BaanIV's tighter DB2/Informix coupling
- Domain and enumeration changes: extended domain definitions and new enumerated types across LN modules
Migrating Legacy 4GL Customizations
Legacy BAAN 4GL customizations require systematic analysis before migrating to LN. The core 4GL syntax is compatible, but API calls, include files, and runtime library functions may reference deprecated or renamed components. Infor provides migration tools including the LN Customization Scanner that identifies incompatible constructs, but manual review remains necessary for complex customizations.
- Run Infor's Customization Scanner against all legacy 4GL scripts to generate a compatibility report
- Identify deprecated BaanIV library functions and map to LN equivalents using Infor's migration reference guide
- Update include file references from BaanIV paths ($BSE/include) to LN VRC-managed include packages
- Recompile all 4GL objects against the target LN compiler version to catch syntax-level incompatibilities
- Test migrated customizations against LN business processes since table relationship changes may alter behavior
Maintaining Compatibility During LN Upgrades
Organizations running long-term on LN must manage compatibility across successive LN versions. Each service pack and major version may deprecate APIs, rename sessions, or restructure tables that customizations depend on. A compatibility management strategy that includes automated regression testing and customization inventory tracking prevents upgrade surprises.
- Maintain a complete inventory of all custom 4GL objects with dependencies on standard LN sessions and tables
- Subscribe to Infor's LN release notes specifically tracking deprecated sessions, renamed tables, and API changes
- Implement automated regression tests for custom 4GL code that execute after every LN service pack application
- Use the VRC layering system to isolate customizations in dedicated packages separated from standard LN code
- Plan periodic customization reviews to retire obsolete modifications and adopt standard LN features that replace them
Migrating from BAAN to LN? Netray's AI agents scan legacy customizations and generate compatibility reports with remediation plans.
Related Resources
Infor LN DLL Customization Guide
Develop custom DLLs for Infor LN extending business logic, forms, and external system calls. C/C++ and .NET DLL development patterns for LN customization.
Infor LNInfor LN Data Migration and ETL Guide
Plan and execute Infor LN data migrations with ETL best practices. Data Migration Framework, staging tables, validation rules, and cutover strategies for LN projects.
Infor LNInfor LN Cloud Migration Strategy Guide
Plan your Infor LN cloud migration with assessment frameworks, architecture decisions, and phased migration strategies for moving LN to Infor Cloud or hybrid hosting.