However, since most of these CGIs tend to be very similar in functionality, it makes sense to create a single application that handles form data. The application should be coded in such a way that the form creator can control the CGI's functionality by using hidden fields in the form. Let's say we want to control who the e-mail is sent to and what the subject is from our calling form but don't want our users to see that information. By using hidden fields in our HTML form, we can secretly send the data we need without confusing the user with additional entry fields. Users will never see these fields, yet they will be submitted with the rest of the fields.
Field names are case-sensitive.
Extending this idea, we can create a full-featured application that will handle nearly any form on our Web site. That's the purpose of the example application. Using one syntax greatly improves your programming efficiency, reduces the likelihood of errors, and allows for greater code reuse. For example, let's say Bob has a Hawaii Sweepstakes Promotion with a form on the Web site. The example application will enable you to send Bob the data from the form so that he can randomly select a winner.