GlobalVariablesNamesSpace is not declared

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How can I resolve the global variables exception when attempting to compile or run a project?

Issue Description:

When attempting to compile or run a project, an user may encounter the error message: 'GlobalVariablesNamespace' is not declared. This issue caused due to the disappearance of global variables from the project.

Context and Resolution Steps:

  • Initial Observation:
    • The error was observed after zipping and unzipping the project folder.
    • Upon unzipping, all global variables disappeared from the project in the development environment.
  • Troubleshooting Steps:
    • Replication Attempt: To replicate the issue, the project folder was zipped using the standard Windows ZIP utility and then unzipped.
    • Observation: It was confirmed that zipping and unzipping the project caused the global variables to disappear.
  • Root Cause Analysis:
    • Global variables and other critical project definitions are stored in the .project folder.
    • The Windows ZIP utility does not include folders that start with a dot (.) in the archive. This is a known issue/feature in Windows.
  • Workaround:
    • Manually recreate the global variables in the project after unzipping.
    • Use 7-Zip (7z) to archive the project. Unlike the Windows ZIP utility, 7-Zip correctly includes all folders, including those starting with a dot.

Resolution:

  • Using 7-Zip to Archive the Project:
    • Download and install 7-Zip from the official website.
    • Right-click on the project folder and select 7-Zip > Add to archive....
    • Ensure the archive format is set to 7z and proceed to create the archive.
  • Unzipping with 7-Zip:
    • Right-click on the 7z archive and select 7-Zip > Extract Here.
    • Verify that the .project folder and its contents are correctly extracted.
  • Recreating Global Variables:
    • If the global variables are still missing, manually recreate them in the development environment.

Conclusion:

This issue is caused by the limitations of the Windows ZIP utility in handling folders that start with a dot. Using 7-Zip to archive and extract the project ensures that all necessary files and folders are included, preventing the loss of global variables.

Additional Notes:

  • Always verify the contents of the archive before sharing or transferring project files.
  • Consider documenting any manual steps taken to recreate global variables for future reference.

By following these steps, you can effectively resolve the 'GlobalVariablesNamespace' is not declared error and prevent it from occurring in the future.

FYI - Windows 10 will not extract zip files; produces an empty folder. - Microsoft Community