Methods and apparatus for parallel execution of a process

Abstract

One embodiment of the invention is directed to executing a computer program that manipulates data stored in a distributed manner on a parallel server. At least one portion of the computer program treats the data from a global perspective, wherein commands to the parallel server are not specific to the manner in which the data is distributed on the parallel server. In addition, at least one portion of the computer program treats the data from a local perspective, wherein commands to the parallel server are specific to the manner in which the data is distributed on the parallel server.

1 . A method of processing a computer program that manipulates a data structure stored on a parallel server comprising a plurality of processors, wherein a portion of the data structure is stored on each of the plurality of processors, and wherein the method comprises acts of:
 (a) executing a first routine based on code in the computer program that causes a first request to perform a first operation on the data structure to be sent to the parallel server, wherein the first routine is a routine that overloads a serial routine that, when executed, causes the first operation to be performed serially; and   (b) executing a second routine based on code in the computer program that causes a second request to be sent to the parallel server, wherein the second request includes an instruction to at least one specific processor of the plurality of processors to perform a second operation on the portion of the data structure stored on the at least one specific processor.