Extraction and Loading of data onto MIMS

[shackle]

My understanding is that the backend to MIMS is and Oracle data base, and RDL is just a toll to write reports to reteave the data.

So does anyone know if it is possible to use an SQL script to reteave data, if you have the right access rights.

Also can SQL be used to load data as well.

 

[PeterHoenig]

Shac,

There are many ways to get data out of the DB. Certainly SQL based tools are OK. or ODBC tools, etc. What were you intending? ... it should be OK. The data structures are available.

Loading data can happen in a number of different ways depending on your requirements. If you have large amounts of data or you'r converting data then some type of direct data manipulation (SQL) is best. For small or medium amounts, or just general day to day stuff, I'd recommend some type of scripting. Options:

- Your own SQL scripts. (Fast, Large, No Business Logic, OK for simple tables and joins) Note: If this is what ya want, contact Mincom and they can help you out)

- Import,Export progs (MSDXXX ?, MSLXXX ?) (Fast, Large, Again mostly raw DB stuff)

- GUI Script(MSO), Connector(Objects), etc. (Slower, Uses full business, secure, standard mims messages, etc)

Thanks,

Peter.

 

[Calator]

Extracting from MIMS: use RDL, CorVu, SQL, or any other software able to connect to the database (can be Oracle or another database depending on your platform)

Loading data to MIMS:
- some MIMS interface programs MSB* and interface files MST* dictionary entries exist for some areas eg Journal, Supplier, Bank Transactions, Labour Costing and are documented in the User reference. Usually they require some customisation using RDL
- MINT scripts available from Mincom or user group; they take their data from a text file and simulate data entry via MIMS screens, using MSO* to perform all validations as if data were keyed in
- SQL and other software can be used but the essential aspect is that if you bypass MIMS going directly to the database you need to insure that in doing this you do not load records that are inconsistent with MIMS rules, eg it would be very easy to overlook cross reference records and other related records that need to be created. For this reason I would not recommend this avenue unless the programs are supplied by Mincom

Other version-dependent tools are available (eg MIMS Connector)

 

[RodS]

I'd like to reinforce Calator's excellent email. Mincom does not recommend loading data into its MIMS/Ellipse Databases unless via an authorised means, ie load programs or screens provided by Mincom. Because of the complex relationship between files in the MIMS/Ellipse system, its so easy to overlook something and suddenlyl end up with data corruption on your hands.
On the other hand if you intend to only extract data from the database, you can use any type of query tool that is compatible with the database. The databases we support include Oracle, DB2, SQL Server as well as several others.

If you are unsure please contact your regional helpdesk for assistance.

Regards

Rod Sprenger
Support Manager
Mincom Australia