Topic outline

• Editing Data Transformations via Code

  Editing Data Transformations via Code

  Content Type
  Course

  Duration
  30m

  Level
  Intermediate

  Learn how to edit data transformations in InterSystems® products directly in their class files, which store XML code. Editing the code directly can increase the efficiency of tasks such as duplicating large blocks of logic or finding specific lines of logic. This code-based approach is an alternative to using the visual data transformation language (DTL) editor, which offers a graphical approach for creating and modifying data transformations.

  Learning Objectives

  • Compare the graphical and code-based approaches to editing data transformations.
  • Identify the benefits of code-based editing.
  • Identify the parts of data transformation class files.
  • Update meta-information and parameters in the class file of a data transformation.
  • Update logical blocks of XML code within a data transformation.
  • Identify best practices for editing code in data transformations.

  Prerequisites

  • Knowledge of basic data transformations in InterSystems products
  • Experience using Visual Studio Code to connect your InterSystems server.
• Start the Course

  Start the Course

  You must be logged in to view this content.

  Don't have an InterSystems account? Create a new account.
• What's Next?

  What's Next?

  You have begun creating data transformations and interacting with the classes behind them, and seen some advantages of a code-based approach. In your environment, consider the particular use cases for data transformations and evaluate whether it is efficient and appropriate to bypass the user interface. For newer users who may need guardrails to prevent errors, or to ensure proper validation when creating the initial structure of a data transformation class, it may be best to use the DTL interface. However, there are many modifications and updates that you can quickly and easily execute in VS Code once you are comfortable with the process.

  Continue learning with the following content:

  • Build more advanced data transformations with complex logic (online course, 2h).
  • Use the rule editor to set up rules for complex decision logic (video, 6m).
  • Read about defining data transformations (documentation).
  • Learn how to create InterSystems class definitions in VS Code (online course, 45m).

  • Share Your Feedback!