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Importing Products Using Files

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File-based importing and exporting is a proven method for transferring data between X3 and other applications or data sources. It is well suited to processing large amounts of data, and the process can be automated through user-defined time scheduling of batch jobs.

Should you need to integrate on a real-time basis, take a look at the web service example of importing.

Importing data leverages the very same business logic as the X3 user interface to provide consistent validation and referential integrity across input methods. This common logic also provides default data. For example, when populating the “Product Category” in a product record, the product’s stock management options and units of measure automatically assigned, if not provided.

Data is imported via templates which specify the fields exposed for importing, as well as the data file type, the field and record separators, and the record types used for the source data.

File Import Example

The product template used to manage the import of basic product data is “ITM” (Item). You’ll find the template and demonstration data in X3’s “SEED” folder.

Download the sample product data file

The sample product data file contains records for several items. You can open the file with a text editor and compare the data across products.

To import the data in X3:

  1. Go to Usage > Imports/Exports > Imports.
  2. In the dialog box, enter ITM as the name of the template.
  3. Under Location, select the Client radio button, then click OK.
  4. In the file dialog box, navigate to the location of the downloaded data file and select it.
  5. Once the file is uploaded, click OK to begin the import.

A log displays the results of the import. Make note of the log number to access it later at Reports > Reports > Log reading.

To find out more, and take control of more functionality, see the Import/Export Guide.