Stored procedures input and return types

Netezza Performance Server stored procedures are a hybrid between functions and procedures (as defined by the SQL:2003 standard for SQL-invoked routines). In the Netezza Performance Server implementation, an NZPLSQL stored procedure takes only input arguments and supports a return value as functions do. Unlike functions, a stored procedure must be called by using CALL or a similar construct, and it is not allowed in the usual query locations where a built-in or standard function is allowed.

A stored procedure can also be designed to return a result set. For more information, see Return a result set.