Data import overview

Import has some strict requirements for SFTP targets, file names, and file configurations. These requirements apply regardless of your import method.

Before you begin importing data, you need to understand the following information for successful data import.

• Every client ID has its own unique import SFTP target. Regardless of the import solution you are using, all import files are sent to the SFTP target for your client ID.
• Each import solution has file naming conventions that you must follow.
• Each import solution has a configuration that defines the structure and contents that IBM® Digital Analytics Import expects to see in the files that you import.
• Some import solution configurations are static. Other import solution types are more flexible.

  For example, Category Definition Files adhere to a specific structure and you are only allowed to change the file delimiter character. Forecast Metrics import files can be configured to include any of the supported Top Line metrics and in any field order.

• Import validates the files against the configurations that you define. Creating files that match the configuration is essential for successful data imports.
• You can import data directly from Import or use another process such as a recurring cron job or SFTP client upload. Regardless of the method that you use, the files are processed against the same validation rules.