The "Common Data Directory" is a term used when you utilize AnyOrder in a networking situation.  When you set-up  AnyOrderon a network, you'll pick one of the computers where you want to store AnyOrder's data files.  All of the other computers on the network will use this one directory to access AnyOrder's files.

If you have a file server, then the Common Data Directory resides on the server.  If you have a peer-to-peer network (no server), then you'll pick one of the faster computers.

AnyOrder is installed to the designated computer.  The directory on this designated computer where AnyOrder is installed, then, becomes the "Common Data Directory."  If you use the default installation directory, the Common Data Directory will be named: "C:\AnyOrder."

To access the Common Data Directory from other computers in the network, you'll indicate the path in Basic Set-up (reached by selecting FILE >> BASIC PROGRAM SET-UP from the menu).  The path to the Common Data Directory can be indicated in two ways: 1) by the use of the UNC (Universal Naming Convention) system; or 2) by a mapped drive.  UNC names begin with two back-slashes such as: "\\myserver\AnyOrder "  Mapped drive letters are drive letters like "J."  For more details, see: Networking.

Note that in FILE >> BASIC PROGRAM SET-UP you'll need to enter the path to the Common Data Directory on each workstation.  However, do not enter the directory on the server machine.  It should be left blank on the server.  Even if you enter the correct path to the AnyOrder directory on the server, it will cause problems with the program's operation.  Leave this field empty on the server.