The Exchange Data feature uses view definitions, which are based on graph definitions.
Each graph definition is a collection of edge definitions that represents a path through
the data model.
The view definition sits on top of the graph definition and acts as a filter. During
the export of data and documents, the Exchange Data feature uses the view definition
to pick the required properties from the objects.
When do I use a view definition to export data?
Use a view definition to filter the properties of objects selectively and generate
a CSV file in basic format for processing import mappings in Data Validator. For example, to export a document, configure a view definition to filter all the
required properties for creating the document in the target system.
When do I use a graph definition to export data?
Use a graph definition to export objects, along with all their properties, and generate
an inverted CSV file for processing import mappings in Data Validator. An inverted CSV file or raw attribute CSV file is useful when a single object has
many properties that make it impractical to represent each property in its own column.
Each row in the inverted CSV file represents a property definition.
For more information on how to create view definitions and graph definitions, see
Create a Graph Definition, Create a View Definition, and SmartPlant Report Administration.