Read Flat File activity

The Read Flat File activity converts flat file data (non-XML data) to XML data by applying the specified Flat File Schema. XML data is returned from this activity as the output parameter.

The input parameter of the Read Flat File activity expects flat file data. Flat file (non-XML) data includes comma-separated values (.csv) and other types of delimited files, as well as fixed-length text files that comprise many EDI systems. Flat File data can be obtained from various endpoint activities, such as the FTP Poll Directory activity, HTTP Receive Request activity, or Get Email activity.

For an example of using a Read Flat File activity in an orchestration, see "Developing a Simple Project" in the Getting Started Guide.

You must create the Flat File Schema before you can select a Flat File Schema in the Select a Flat File Schema field of the Configure task.

To add a Read Flat File activity to an orchestration:

Procedure

  1. Create or open an orchestration. For more information, see Creating an orchestration. A graphical representation of the orchestration is displayed.
  2. Select the Activities tab and expand the Transform folder.
  3. Drag the Read Flat File activity onto the orchestration. Place it to the right of an endpoint activity from which the orchestration will obtain the flat file data (for example, an FTP Poll Directory activity).
  4. Select the Read Flat File activity and configure it as described in Configuring a Flat File activity.