CP SQL - Data Interchange v.s. Data Import/Export

What is the difference between the Data Interchange and the Data Import/Export Utilities?

Without getting too technical, here are the key differences between the utilities.

1.  The Data Import/Export Utility.

This utility predates the Data Interchange utility and is more limited in it's scope.  It's primary usage is for doing bulk imports and exports of data to/from individual CP SQL Tables. 

a.  Imports

• The utility allows Adding, Updating and/or Replacing records in a specific table.

• The software assumes that the source import file has ALL of the required fields that the destination CP SQL table has.  If not, you can manually set-up field mapping if you desire.

b.  Exports

• Unless a specific SQL Query selection statement is used to specify the data columns and data ranges, the program assumes that ALL table columns and all table data is to be exported.

With either "a." and "b." above, none of the parameters entered can be saved for later re-use.

2.  The Data Interchange Utility.

This utility has similar functionality with Data Import/Export Utility, however, the following additional features are added:

a. Imports

• Specific columns from an external file can be imported into a database table.

•  Import parameters that are created can be saved for later re-use. 

•  Depending on how your control files are set-up, if you are importing certain data into one table, the software may automatically update the linked table data.  As an example of this is  when importing items, the utility could add items, inventory status records, and item price records as part of the process. 

Examples of things that you could do with this utility are:

Import pre qualified leads into your customer file.

Updating Vendor Item cost and price data.

b. Exports

• Specific columns from a database table can be selected and ordered for output.

• A SQL Statement that selects specific columns and/or ranges of  data could be used.

• Export parameters that are created can be saved for later re-use.  This includes the ability to edit the SQL selection statement.

Example of how this utility could be used is:

Selecting email or mailing address information for all customers within a given date range who's last sale was over $500.00


If you would like more information regarding the above utility or need assistance using them, please contact the CCS Retail Systems Support Department.