File Layouts

A file layout is a definition that represents the data structure of a flat (text) file to be processed. When reading from or writing to a flat file, PeopleCode can use a file layout as a template to identify and correctly process the records and fields of the file. File layouts work with hierarchical and non-hierarchical data, and they can handle files that combine data records with non-data (audit or control) records.

To access data in a file, you do not have to create a file layout. PeopleTools supports reading and writing to plain text files, as well as to files that have a format based on a file layout:

• If the file is a plain text file, you use text strings to read or write data.

• If the file is based on a file layout, you can use text strings, rowsets, or record objects.

Using a file layout greatly simplifies reading, writing, and manipulating hierarchical transaction data with PeopleCode. It can facilitate transactions between a PeopleSoft application and a third-party system when the third-party system does not support PeopleSoft Integration Broker or component interfaces.

Note:

Do not create or save files in Microsoft Excel and then use those files for file processing.

File layouts do not have any related-language processing abilities.

Applying File Layouts to Data Interchanges

In addition to manipulating transaction data, you can employ file layouts to move data between a PeopleSoft database and external systems (data interchange) by using flat files as the transmission medium. File layouts enable you to:

• Export hierarchical PeopleSoft data to several flat file formats.

• Map incoming hierarchical file data directly to PeopleSoft tables.

• Preview and troubleshoot the input data and its formatting before importing it.

• Automatically generate the Application Engine and PeopleCode programs that are needed to perform data import.

• Use batch processes to perform large-volume data imports and exports.