MultiTasks (Multiple AutoTasks)

This topic is intended for those using IFP 3.3.6 or older. For IFP 3.3.7 and later, please see MultiTasks (Multiple AutoTasks).

Overview

MultiTasks allow several AutoTasks to be run in one operation, meaning that several parts of a database can be updated at once with just a few clicks. Each AutoTask is run in sequence. There is also a MultiTasks video tutorial.

For MultiTasks that will make significant changes to the database, we recommend that the first AutoTask is always a Database Backup.

All of the following actions are undertaken in the AutoTask Manager (From IFP Home select Databases/Files > AutoTask Manager.)

Create a MultiTask 

1. On the AutoTask Manager, press Add.
2. Enter a relevant name and any notes to explain it.
3. Press the "+" button and select a Database Backup AutoTask from the selection. Repeat to add more AutoTasks (at least 1 more is required).
4. Press Save and close.
   

A good example sequence of these AutoTasks taking place would be:

• Database Backup
• Item codes Import
• Apply Data Model
• Data Import
• Project

The ordering of these is vitally important as specific AutoTasks cannot take place until others have done so.

Edit a MultiTask / View Run History

Select a MultiTask and click Properties to edit it. You can also view its run history i.e. details on whether each run was successful or not.

Run a MultiTask

This allows you to run the selected MultiTask, executing each of its AutoTasks in sequence. Be careful that you understand the exact changes that each AutoTask will make.

Add an MultiTask as a Starred Item

Select a MultiTask and click Add Star on the toolbar. The MultiTask will be added to IFP Home, where it can be run using a single click.

Delete a MultiTask

Select a MultiTask and click Delete on the toolbar. Make sure you are deleting the correct file as this process is irreversible.

Common MultiTask Issues 

As with other AutoTasks, there are some common issues you should be aware of when running MultiTasks; these are shown below.

The Imported Data is Incomplete

This is most likely due to the sequence of the AutoTasks in the MultiTask. For example, importing Actual Data before Importing New Item Codes, will result in  some Actual Data being skipped.

The MultiTask does not Run

This may be due to a missing or renamed AutoTask. The details will be shown in the Output Window.

I can't find AutoTasks in IFP

There are two main reason why this could be happening:

1. Check that you are running IFP version 3.2 or later. 
2. You may not have access rights to use AutoTasks. Please contact your Local Administrator to check this.