CSV stands for Comma Separated Value. This file format is frequently used for importing or exporting data from a system. It typically contains one line of ‘headers’ that defines each value in subsequent lines. The information below the headers contains the actual data for the document. For example, a CSV might look like this:
Invoice Number, Invoice Date, PO Number, Quantity, Unit, Unit Price, Item Description
INV123, 20160101, 4500091749, 3, EA, 3.99, Signs
INV123, 20160101, 4500091749, 5, EA, 7.99, Materials
Each value corresponds to the first header row, separated by commas. CSVs can also use characters other than commas to separate each value. For example, it’s common to see ‘|’ used as a separator. These subtle differences in format don’t change the structure of file and are dependent on the system creating the file.
CSV is a very common file format because it can be flexibly defined. A system can simply choose its header values and communicate the values for those headers. For this reason, you are almost guaranteed to encounter a CSV file format when dealing with data integration.
Babelway uses the header row to identify each value. You can use Babelway to map each field to another file format and apply additional data changes to each value if necessary. It’s very easy to control the data, regardless of the incoming CSV’s structure.
Wayfair uses CSV flat files to exchange inventory information or as an alternative to X12 for their European suppliers.
Create your incoming or outgoing CSV structure from a sample file:
Use simple drag & drop tools to map your message to any other format for easy import/export in or from your database.
Connect your Babelway environment using any EDI or non-EDI communication protocols.
Babelway is not only a great self-service platform but also a team of pro ready to help you succeed.
IT Department, Vandeputte