This article focuses on Data Objects— for information on the Data Object Editor, see Introduction to the Data Object Editor instead.
The Assette Data Object is fundamental in arranging data exposed by Data Blocks and implementing all business and presentation logic. These Data Objects are then utilized by the Assette Authoring Tools, enabling end users to create content templates. Additionally, Data Objects allow developers to expose parameters called Data Settings, which enable business users to configure behavior in Smart Pages, Smart Docs, and Web Docs.
To access the Data Objects, first login to Assette and navigation to the Developer Tools (formerly Developer Center). Like other areas of Assette, the user’s roles (e.g., Data Block Viewer, Data Block Developer or Data Block Admin) will be determine whether the user may access Data Block Editor and the actions which may be taken within the Developer Center.
Key Responsibilities of the Data Objects Layer #
The Data Objects layer is responsible for several crucial functions:
- Defining Derived Columns: Create new data columns based on calculations or transformations of existing data.
- Defining Grouping, Sorting, and Aggregation Calculations: Organize data by grouping similar items, sorting them, and performing aggregate functions like sum, average, etc.
- Defining Different Row Types and Derivation Rules: Specify various row types (e.g., header, data, footer) and the rules to determine them.
- Defining Conditional Formatting Rules: Apply specific formatting to data based on certain conditions to enhance readability and emphasis.
- Defining Legends and Legend Colors for Charts: Customize chart legends and their colors for better visualization.
- Defining Dynamic/Static Column Headings: Set up column headings that can change dynamically based on data or remain static.
- Defining Dynamic/Static Titles and Footnotes: Configure titles and footnotes that adapt to data changes or stay constant.
- Managing via Data Settings: Make all aspects manageable through Data Settings to minimize the number of required Data Objects, thereby reducing the number of necessary Smart Pages and Smart Docs.
- Enhancing Data Settings: Enrich Data Blocks’ Data Settings with information on possible options, default values, dependencies, etc., to provide the best user experience in Authoring Tools.
Data Object Output Types #
Data Objects should return output in one of the following types:
- Data Table: Returns a list of records (sets of key-value pairs). This output can be used to generate tables and charts.
- Text: Outputs text that can be used to generate labels or HTML content. Language Objects are a special type of Data Object with text output.
- Image: Returns a binary image along with its MIME type.
