A flat file schema is the blueprint that contains the instructions for parsing or creating a flat file. The schema exists as a namespace element in the webMethods Integration Server. This blueprint details the structure of the document, including delimiters, records, and repeated record structures. A flat file schema also acts as the model against which you can validate an inbound flat file. A flat file schema consists of hierarchical elements that represent each record, field, and subfield in a flat file. Each element is a record, composite, or field, and either a definition or reference. You configure each element with the necessary constraints. For more detailed information about flat files and flat file schemas, see Flat File Schema developer's Guide.