Applying Item Code Mapping Models

This topic is intended for those using IFP 3.4.1 and earlier. Those using later versions should view Implementing Mapping Updates using All Items with any Blank Codes.

Overview

After importing new item codes into an IFP database it is usually necessary to maintain mappings of these codes to some classification variables. The best way to do this is to use item code mapping models based upon code conversion tables.

This method is far superior to manual editing of classification data as it is much faster and reliable and allows easy modification of mapping rules at any point in time. See Item Code Classification Variables Mapping Tables for details of suitable mapping tables.

Mapping models are best applied on an exception basis, i.e. by selecting only those items that do not have an existing mapping for the variable(s) concerned. The example below shows how to apply a mapping table for the variable BU for all items that currently have a blank BU assignment.

Select Item Codes to be Mapped

1. From IFP Home, select Codes Maintenance > Item Codes Maintenance
2. Click on the Classification Variables tab
3. Set one condition, i,e. BU < 0
   
4. Select Next and Finish to open the Codes Editor

 Applying Mapping Table

1. Select the complete column 'BU' by clicking on the column header
   
2. Select Data > Modelling > Apply Model
   
3. Select the required Conversion Table, 'Assign BU'
   
4. Click on Apply. The empty BU mappings should then be populated according to the mapping rules
   
5. Repeat the above for any other variables that require updating.
6. If the resulting assignments look correct click Save and Close

To see a demonstration of this process, see the second section of [video]: Importing Data into IFP.

Multiple Target Variables

Where the code conversion table includes rules to assign values for 2 or more consecutive variables (e.g. BU and Franchise), you must select all target variable columns and apply the mapping model in a single operation.