overview?

[cmruff]

If anyone can jot an overview of what a software bridge actually is and how one is implemented, I'd appreciate it! Thanks!

[wjstarck]

Well, a bridge is nothing more than a means by which a program such as OD can pass parameters (such as patient name, number and the like) to another application external to OD in a format that that program expects, and then launch that program.

Examples would be the Vixwin or Dexis bridges found in Setup > Program Links. You can find more here:
http://www.opendental.com/manual/programlinks.html

Why do you ask?

[wjstarck]

FYI, Jordan, there is a tiny bug (maybe unexpected behavior is a better term) if I try to create an external program link to Word, for example. If the toolbar button is selected to show in the Appointment Book, it won't work unless a patient is clicked on first in the appointment book.

[jordansparks]

I'll keep it in mind but don't have time to fiddle with it.