Files that are connected to DataRails instantly have an audit trail and version control. The versions can be compared to one another, tagged and named for identification purposes. The data from these files can also be extracted for dashboard visualizations, consolidation, and automation processes or used in external databases (e.g. SQL).
- Connected files are tracked based on their location and naming convention.
- DataRails keep monitoring files even if DataRails’ application is closed.
- A connected file will have a DataRails icon on the lower left corner of the file.
Connect a Single File:
- Right click on the file (from any folder or your desktop)
- Select DataRails
- Click on “Connect”
There are 2 connection options:
- Connect a new file to the system (first version)
- Connecting a file to DataRails will create a FileBox
- A FileBox stores all of the file’s versions – file history
- Connect to an existing FileBox (as a new version of a connected file)
A new FileBox: Simple FileBox or Veriosn Tag FileBox
Simple FileBox
- Name your FileBox
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Click on “Connect”
FileBox with Veriosn Tags (recommended setting)
Adding version will enable easy access, filter capabilities and dashboard trend setup
- Name your FileBox
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Click on the button to “Activate Date Tags”
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Select the time cadence/process period relevant for the file
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Example: Monthly forecasting model – assign a “Month” tag. Yearly budget process – assign a “Year” tag.
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Assign the tag for the current file (the one you are connecting)
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Click on “Connect”
An Existing FileBox: add a version
A list with all of your FileBoxes will appear
- Select the relevant FileBox from the list
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Click on “Select”
Connect Multiple Files:
New FileBoxes will be created to each one of the files
- Select multiple files in a folder
- Open the “right-click menu” and click on "Connect"
- Check the files you want to connect and hit "Connect"
