Using a Rule in a Dataflow

This topic describes how to use Rules in a Dataflow Procedure step.

Rules can be used in a Dataflow Procedure step. By running a Rule for a Cube in a Dataflow, the calculation results of the formula are stored in the target Cube. The target Cube must contain the Rule Entity as a dimension which must be consolidated. Multiple Rules are supported in a single Dataflow Layout, but they must be applied to the same Entity on each Block.

To run a Rule for a Cube in a Dataflow Procedure step, proceed as follows:

1. Create a Procedure and define a Dataflow step

2. Click on CONFIGURE LAYOUT to enter the Layout editor of the Dataflow and select the Cube on which the Rule should be applied

3. Select a Rule from the Block settings under the "Rules" submenu

4. Click "SAVE" to save the Rule configuration and then "SAVE" to save the Layout configuration

5. From the Dataflow step configuration panel, select the target Cube and enter the calculation in the "Expression" field

6. Configure all other properties as needed (optional)

7. Click the "ADD" button.

Rules generally include algorithms or formulas which cannot be aggregated (for example percentages and ratios), so Rules are usually not applied in Dataflow steps.

Rules can be applied alongside Time functions in a Layout: in that case, the selected Time function is always executed before the Rule. Rules and Time functions cannot be enabled on the same Block.

To properly calculate all members of the Entity where a Rule has been set, the "Extend calculation" option must be enabled on that Entity. To apply a Rule to a Cube in the Dataflow Layout, select the appropriate Cube and apply the desired Rule from the "Rules" submenu in the Block settings. The Cube must have the Rule Entity in its Structure. You cannot add a Rule as a Block of the Dataflow Layout. If a Rule refers to a previous Block in the Layout through the column offset operator and that Block is also the target of the Dataflow, then the "Period by Period recursion" option can be enabled.