The Domino® Directory template

The default Domino® Directory template (PUBNAMES.NTF) controls the appearance and functionality of the Domino® Directory database (NAMES.NSF). Domino® uses the forms and settings in the default Domino® Directory template to control features -- for example, mail, server tasks, and access control -- and to store critical information that manages server connections, mail routing, and system configuration.

Using the default Domino® Directory template ensures that all Domino® features work properly. However, you may want to customize the Domino® Directory to suit the needs of your organization. If you customize the Domino® Directory template, you must follow specific rules and procedures to get exactly the look you want without jeopardizing the performance of the system and/or losing the customizations when you upgrade to a new version of the default Domino® Directory template.

To ensure that your customizations do not disable your system, customize a copy of the default Domino® Directory template. Then, if you make a mistake, you can easily revert to the default Domino® Directory template.

You must use the Domino® Designer client or write a Notes® API program to customize the Domino® Directory. For more information, see Lotus® C API Toolkit for Notes/Domino in the developerWorks® Technical Library.

Customizing the Domino® Directory requires Designer or Manager access in the ACL of the Domino® Directory.