Attributes

Attributes are used as extended information about key values in pivot sheets, filter dialog boxes, and so on. You can display the key value with one or more attribute values as a descriptive extension. This is useful when the key value itself does not possess adequate information or when different users require different information.

The key value and any attribute values are shown as a concatenated string separated by – in the key column or list. You can configure the attributes for display of attributes, the sequence of attributes, and the key value.

Note: You must always include the key value to ensure unique values.

Attributes are defined for the keys in a dataset or imported into M3 DMP from a variety of sources by using a Data Connector supported by Microsoft ActiveX Data Objects. You can use an ODBC connection to M3 BE, Microsoft Excel, or any other OleDB provider.

To enable the use of attributes, open Dataset properties in Datasets > Properties and specify how to use the attributes.

This table shows the attribute usage.


Field	Use	Definition	Attribute usage
Status	off	off	The attribute is not used in the Dataset.
	on	off	The attribute is used as a separate column in the pivot sheet.
	on	on	The attribute is used but it is linked together in the Key field.

The attributes are always switched on in all Favorite views. This is the preferred way to define the key descriptions.

Once defined, the attribute import is controlled from within M3 DMP. See Import Attribute Values.