Data File Copying AutoTask

Overview

This AutoTask allows you to copy data from one file to another using an automated process, rather than going through the copying process manually.

Create the AutoTask

Note: An AutoTask requires a saved Item Favourite, so you need to Load an existing Item Favourite. It is also advisable to Run the Copy to ensure it works as expected.

You should make selections as you would normally to copy a data file. On the final Save AutoTask page of the Copy Data File Wizard, you can then Save As New AutoTask..., saving in a Public File.

You may also Use relative years to avoid having to update the source and target file years as the database environment settings change (e.g. if the AutoTask is created in 2015 and copies 2015 WKCST A.S.P. to 2016 WKCST then, with Use relative years selected, when the database current year is 2016 the AutoTask will automatically copy 2016 WKCST A.S.P. to 2017 WKCST).

If you are editing an existing AutoTask, there will also be an option to Save 'the current AutoTask name'.

Run the AutoTask

When you run the AutoTask, IFP will copy data between the two files using all of the options previously selected, without requiring further interaction. See How to Run AutoTasks for the different ways that you can run AutoTasks in IFP.

Output tab

When the AutoTask is run, the Output tab shows the results of the data copy i.e. how many records were copied. You can also click Save Results… to save a description of the task and the contents of the Output tab to a file.

Common Issues

There are some common issues that you should be aware of when creating and running a Data File Copying AutoTask.

No Item Favourite Selected when saving the AutoTask

You must select or save an Item Favourite in order to be able to save an AutoTask, otherwise you will see the following  message when attempting to Save a New AutoTask:

To correct this, return to the Item Selection page and select an appropriate Item Favourite . You will now be able to Save As New AutoTask.

Target Data File Locked

In this case, the Warning Messages tab will indicate that Target data file is locked for selected period. Check if the data file has been incorrectly locked.

Code Conversion Table / Item Favourites file not found

The Item Favourite or Code Conversion Table the AutoTask was using has been removed or renamed (this will also be indicated on the General tab or AutoTask Properties, highlighted in red). Edit the AutoTask and select the renamed or replacement file to resolve this.

I can't find AutoTasks in IFP

See How to Run AutoTasks for information on using AutoTasks. If you cannot access AutoTasks in IFP you may not have access rights to use them. Please contact your Local Administrator to check this.