Tips & Tools - Sage MAS 500 - Data Imports

MAS 500 Data Imports

MAS 500 has a number of methods to import data into the application. The four options are explained below.

1: Classic Data Import Utilities

Each module has a limited amount of classic data import routines, for example AP has a utility to import vendors and vouchers. GL can import GL accounts and transactions. The Classic Data import is very fast and comes with MAS 500. A disadvantage is that this tool requires data to be in specific formats and is heavy on user intervention. This is used for one time data imports.

2: Dataporter

Dataporter was introduced in 2001 to help with the ‘odd’ imports such as salespeople, workcenters, etc. It can also be used to import vouchers and invoices. Dataporter can take data from an excel spreadsheet and is used for periodic imports with user intervention. A large disadvantage to Dataporter is that it is extremely slow.

3: Data Import Manager

Data Import Manager (DIM) was introduced in version 7.2 to help with scheduling imports into MAS 500. These would be periodic imports from other systems. DIM uses SSIS of SQL server to help with the import. Although Data Import Manager requires advanced SQL knowledge, it can be programmed for no user intervention. This method is also very flexible.

4: Data Migration Utililty

The Data Migration Utility is a tool used to convert data from a legacy system to MAS 500. This is a tool that might be used to upgrade from MAS 90 or MAS 200 to MAS 500. The Data Migration Utility is designed for conversion from one system to another. It can be leveraged to import data if you have an advanced skill in SQL.

Each of these tools use the same basic method to import data into MAS 500. They all use the import APIs that the front end of MAS 500. You are getting the same validation and strength of SQL Server, it is just how you chose to use them.

Return to Sage MAS500 Tips and Tools