Proper term for an export?

[BarzTrading]

In short, I'm wondering whether the nomenclature regarding NinjaScript, AddOn and Export/Import files is somewhat confused or if it's just me.

It seems like we use the term AddOn in three ways:

1. A general purpose word to describe anything that extends the functionality of NinjaTrader
2. A zip file that was exported and can now be imported
3. An object that inherits from AddOnBase

We talk about NinjaScript in at least three ways also:

1. A code file inheriting from the NinjaScript class (which would technically include an AddOn because AddOnBase inherits from NinjaScript)
2. An exported zip file containing one or more NinjaScripts
3. A coding/scripting language

We talk about an Export/Import zip file in a few ways, too:

1. Sometimes we call it an AddOn
2. Sometimes we call it a NinjaScript
3. Sometimes we call it an Export

Are any of these meanings considered more appropriate and accurate than others?

How does NinjaTrader speak about these three things internally to avoid confusion, given the overlap?

I suppose the main confusion, for me at least, revolves around the word AddOn and the difference between "an exported zip file" and a class that inherits from AddOnBase (along with its other supporting code and files).

My brain frays a little every time I call an exported zip file an AddOn, especially if it's a NinjaScript that doesn't inherit from AddOnBase.

Is it correct to call an exported zip file an AddOn? If not, what would you call it? An export?

[NinjaTrader_ChrisL]

Hello BarzTrading,

Thank you for your post.

The word AddOn is sometimes used to describe any extension written in NinjaScript (Indicator, Strategy, or an "AddOn" that inherits AddOnBase). If you know what kind of NinjaScript file was exported, you could refer to it as a strategy, indicator, SuperDOM column, etc. If you know that the script is purely an addon and it inherits the AddOnBase, we would call that add AddOn and most NinjaTrader users will know what you mean.

Please let me know if I can assist further.

[BarzTrading]

Thanks, Chris.

So, we have a little ambiguity with the term AddOn, but I'm OK with that, knowing it's common and acceptable.

I'll just be more specific in contexts where there is a possibility of confusion.