True, but considering that you can have Pro*C, PL/SQL and Java packages, making a global variable across all would be tricky. I always make an xGlobalValue_T table in my schemas. This table always holds global values for the databae, such as database version (in app terms, not like 8.1.6.2), directories, last refresh time, etc. I then make a proc/package to easily get the values from the table and pin both - quick and easy.

- Chris