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Manage Data Model

The capabilities described on this page are included in Appian's advanced and premium capability tiers. Usage limits may apply.

Overview

The Data Model tab in the Plan view is where you define the core structure of your application's data. Think of it as the foundation for organizing and managing your data effectively. Here, you can visually map out the relationships between different tables and ensure your application is built on a strong and logical structure.

You can add new tables, edit existing tables, and configure each table's fields to suit your application's needs. For example, you can define field types and create meaningful connections between tables. The interactive diagram gives you a clear picture of how everything fits together, making it easy to spot and refine relationships.

In the data model, you can map existing record types to your application's design. This ensures your data structures remain consistent across applications and reduces duplication, making development faster and more reliable.

AI Copilot enhances data modeling by recommending best-practice data models, identifying reusable record types, and suggesting updates based on changes in your application plan. These recommendations help you set up and refine your application's data structure with confidence—even if you're new to data modeling.

Add a new table

To add a new table:

  1. Open the Data Model tab.
  2. Click Add Table.
    Result: The Add Table window displays.

  3. Enter a name for the table in the Name field that reflects the purpose of the data.
  4. Select the Mapped Object(s) if this table will correspond to existing record types.
  5. Add fields to your table:
    1. Click ADD NEW FIELD.
    2. Mark the Unique checkbox when you need to ensure no two records in your record type have the same value in that field. Use it for identifiers like order numbers, usernames, or IDs to maintain data integrity. Avoid marking it for fields where duplicate values are expected, like status or categories.
    3. Enter a name for the field in the Field column.
    4. Choose a data type from the Type dropdown (e.g., text, number, or date).
    5. For fields with relationships to other tables in your data model, use the Linked Field to establish the connection. This option is only enabled if there is at least one other field in the data model that is both unique and of the same type.
      Result: The Relationship Type is automatically populated.
  6. Continue adding fields until all the necessary data points are represented.
  7. Click Add to save your table.
    Result: Your new table will display in the data model diagram.

Edit a table

To edit a table:

  1. Open the Data Model tab.
  2. Click the edit icon on the table you want to edit.
    Result: The Edit Table window displays.
  3. Edit your table: This includes specifying the table's name, mapping it to record types, and configuring its fields. You can set field properties, choose data types, establish relationships with other tables, and add or remove fields as needed to align with your application's requirements.
  4. Click SAVE.

Review AI Copilot's suggested updates

When changes are made to your application requirements, AI Copilot automatically suggests updates to your data model to align with the latest requirements. A banner at the top of the page alerts you to pending updates that need your review.

To review and apply these changes:

  1. Click REVIEW CHANGES to see a side-by-side comparison of the current data model and the proposed updates.
  2. Examine the suggested additions (green highlight) and deletions (red highlight) to ensure they meet your needs.
  3. Click APPLY CHANGES to update your data model with the suggested changes. This ensures your data model reflects the latest application requirements. If the suggested changes are unnecessary or require further discussion, click CANCEL.

Tip:  Once you've completed your application plan, you can generate objects to create the actual design objects for your application.

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