The Smart Import Object

This topic covers the Smart Import Object, which allows both Developers and end-users to load data into Cubes or Entities.

With the Smart Import Object, data is loaded from a Screen of a Capsule in Play mode from a familiar Excel-like interface, giving every Board user with data entry privileges and at least a User license the ability to load data with just a few clicks.

The Smart Import Object can be used for:

• the initial data load after a complete Data model has been created

• updating data stored in Cubes

• and/or for adding new members to existing Entities

The Smart Import Object has two methods for loading data:

1. Manually entering it into the table.
   Users can enter values just as they would in an Excel spreadsheet or they can copy and paste data using the CTRL+C and CTRL+V keyboard shortcuts
   

2. Uploading a .xlsx file.
   This method is particularly useful when the amount of data is so large that a manual data entry would be too difficult or when the user prefers to manage data on a local machine. An empty Excel template file can also be downloaded from the Object contextual menu (sliding toolbar)

The Smart Import Object is easily configured in Design mode with a simple two-step mapping process.

It also supports additional options in the Object Properties panel, such as custom validation rules, suggested values, and the execution of a Procedure when data entry is performed, as well as the usual formatting and graphic customization properties common to all Screen Objects.

Currently, data entry actions made via the Smart Import Object are not logged into the DataEntry log file.