# Data Exchange

## Introduction

| The Data Exchange module (EER) provides management functions for the transfer of data (e.g. files and related meta information) between several sites that do not have a common network connection or where network costs are excessively high. The files can be stored at several locations at the same time. This redundant storage of data is the basic working principle of this Agile e6 module. The aim of data redundancy is to reduce network transfers in conjunction with the use of local vaults for file check-in and check-out processes. These measures can result in a significant reduction of transfer volume costs and increase the overall network performance. Data stored at distributed sites can be accessed at all times. The actual data exchange procedure is implemented as an off line process, e.g. by means of tape drive media or via ftp.
| ### Structure
| The module provides the following functions: functions for the configuration of dispatch types and media application functions for the selection of data to be replicated launching of export or import processes evaluation of receipt files
| You must have manager access privileges in order to be able to initiate export and import processes or to configure the settings of a data replication process.
| ### Application
| First, you need to select the data to be transferred (e.g. items or projects) by means of a data replication process. The actual file export or import process is initiated through an interactive batch process. The module compiles a list of related data for the selected objects and initiates the export process.
| Never cancel a replication process in progress! Otherwise the entries made in the "Send To" mask will be incomplete and the whole export package must be replicated again. In such a case, you would also have to reset the corresponding data record information.
| At the recipient site, the data needs to be imported with another interactive batch process and stored afterwards. The Data Exchange Module (EER) enables you to send a receipt file to the originating site thus providing confirmation that the files have been successfully integrated at the target site.
| Replicated data records are read-only copies of the original files. Such files cannot be edited or modified by the recipient.
| Meta information for the replicated files (format, creating system, etc.) as well as the source and destination sites of the replication process are managed with the Data Replication (DDM) module. This is where you define and configure new sites and the corresponding vaults.
| Data Replication Module (DDM)