Data Type Best Practices

Data Type Best Practices

Fact Types can be assigned the following data types:

• String - Text both Long and short. 
• Number - True number not definitive name. Countable/measurable data.
• Date - Date Picker
• Boolean - True/False
• Select List

When determining the fact type, it is best to choose the right type from the beginning as there is no mechanism to migrate to different data types after they are in use.

The fact type 'Number' can be problematic if it is not the most appropriate for the values that will be stored. Sometimes the 'Number' type can cause issues when using Excel for Fact Updates, or in Reporting.

'Number' should be used when something is being measured (i.e. length, miles, percentage, count of stuff). If a fact needs to have any kind of 'contains', 'equals any', or similar search functionality, then 'String' should be used. If it is a unique identifier like an Agreement Number, 'String' is the most appropriate type to use.

If you have any questions or technical difficulties, you can reach out to support@thoughttrace.com