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Add Data Expressions to a Data Container

Overview

Adding data expressions to the data container is the final step in completing the creation of a data connection. For our report we need access to all the fields in the one table and only one in the other.

What is a data expression?

A data expression is the selection from a data container. A data expression can be a:

• Data Field

  A single database field. For example, a field containing customer details such as surname or initials.

• SQL Expression

  Returns data from a field or combination of fields based on a SQL Expression.

• Microsoft Excel Formula

  Returns data based on a Microsoft Excel Function or Formula.

Exercise One: Add data expressions to a container

Add all the fields available in the DocumentHeader table and only the Customer Name from the Customers table. Sample the data to ensure that the expressions are returning a result.

Use the help topics: Add Data Expression and Sample Data to assist you with this task.

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Right-click on the data container Customer Documents.
2. Select Add Expressions.
3. The Select Expression Type to Add dialog box is displayed. Data Field is highlighted by default. Click OK.
4. The Choose Publish Fields dialog box is displayed.
5. Check all the expressions from the DocumentHeader and the Name expression from the Customers Table.
6. Click OK. The data expressions are displayed below the data container.

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