iServer Data Exchange Capabilities

Generate Objects from Data Imported from Excel and XML

Information held in other other tools (such as Aris, Casewise, Systems Architect and Planning IT), can be used to automatically create new objects in iServer.  Using Excel Spreadsheets or XML data source formats, existing information can be regenerated for use Visio models or can simply appear as a 'entity or object' in an EA catalog or list.  By aligning imported data to Visio Shape Masters (notations) new shapes are created which are ready for immediate use.  Data Exchange is provided with a simple wizard to walk users through the import process, no complex coding or data configuration necessary.  Extensive options in the wizard can control the information being imported so a definitive list of content such as an application inventory can be maintained.

Synchronization with External Data Sources  (Master Data Management)

If a single tool is used as the master storage point for all application artifacts, but the rest of the architecture is managed in iServer, it is necessary and useful to reflect the application artifacts within iServer - they need to be related to other aspects of the architecture - but a simple one-off import is insufficient. Firstly, because the other tool is the chosen storage point for applications, and secondly because the imported copy would quickly become out of date. Therefore iServer Data Exchange provides a synchronization mechanism, where artifacts can be imported as read-only, and periodically updated to reflect changes made in the other tool.  This is extremely useful whe

Bulk re-use of imported Objects

Rapidly and easily create new diagrams and deliverables by re-using groups of imported objects using the shape explorer tool and relate them to other aspects of the Enterprise Architecture.

Import Relationship and Meta Data Held in Excel / XML

New or existing Enterprise Architecture information held or created in iServer can be enriched by importing meta-data and relationships from an Excel spreadsheet or XML data source. Examples of imported data include interfaces between applications, process to system information, cost and throughput metrics for processes, asset data or platform / system inventory data

Bulk Data Refresh, Synchronization and Scheduling

Schedule automatic bulk updates of imported objects and their meta-data from the master data store  in order to ensure consistency and data alignment of your Enterprise Architecture content.  Various options are available to control the frequency, timing and requests or notification of the update or refresh made.

Manage imported Objects

List, sort and manage imported objects, restrict editing (if synchronizing with a master data store), delete and purge options.  Also you can specify import settings that will determine how updates and conflicts are handled.

Bulk re-use of imported Objects

Rapidly and easily create new diagrams and deliverables by re-using groups of imported objects using the shape explorer tool and relate them to other aspects of the Enterprise Architecture.