a method is described for encoding and decoding stored units of data representing entity / relationship data , function calls , and file data by including a prefix with each unit of data which includes a length code , an action code , and a unit identifier code . the data units with prefixes are organized into a data stream by using rules described in a formal grammar . the data stream will typically be transmitted to another program inside the computer or to another computer -- host or pws . when received the data stream is parsed back into data units by reversing the encoding process . after the data units are recovered the appropriate action is taken to process the units . e / r data is entered into or updated in a repository , function calls are passed on to an e / r repository function or other program along with the specified parameters for execution , and file data is stored in standard files . generated output is captured , encoded into a data stream and transmitted back to requesting pws which then parses the data stream to recover the output data .