File format for Data Load input files

To run the Data Load utility, an input file is required. The input file must be a CSV or XML file. Your input file must follow a particular format for the Data Load to be able to load your file.

When you are creating your CSV or XML file, ensure that you follow the tips and recommendations for CSV and XML files that are included in Data Load utility best practices.

If you are loading data into tables and columns that are provided by default in WebSphere Commerce, use the existing Data Load samples or examples to help create your load file. Select a sample or example that closely matches the data you are loading. Replace the sample data, with your own data and run the Data Load utility. The business object builders and mediators that are provided by default map your load file contents into the correct database tables. For more information about the default provided samples and examples, see:

If you must load UserData into existing HCL Commerce database tables that are extended, add your UserData into a default provided sample or example input file. To load a file with UserData, you can use the provided TableObjectBuilder and TableObjectMediator to load the file with UserData into the correct table and columns. If you customize Management Center or generate SDO extensions to use this UserData, you must first map the custom data to a logic noun UserData field. Then, you can load your input file with UserData.

If you are loading custom data into a custom table, you can use the TableObjectBuilder and TableObjectMediator to load your file when you run the Data Load utility. You can also create your own custom column handlers or custom mediators.

Sample input files

HCL Commerce also provides sample files to help you create your input files. Use the CSV or XML files that are referenced in the following samples as a starting point for creating your own input files that follow the correct data format.

You can also use the CSV or XML input files that include keywords for use with the Catalog Upload feature in Management Center to help you create your own input files. You do not need to remove the keywords. For more information, see File format for uploading catalog data.