Importing and Exporting Data (For SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional only) Contents Importing Variable Values (For SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional only) SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional can import variable values from an XML file into a vault database. In the vault, existing files or items that match import criteria acquire the values at specified points in the file workflow. Creating an XML File XML File Structure and Example Creating an Import Rule Define import rules to specify the details of importing XML files. Import Rule Dialog Box Use the Import Rule dialog box to configure rules that import data from XML files. Creating an Alias Set Use alias sets to map SOLIDWORKS PDM variables to variables in an ERP system. XML Variable Alias Sets Dialog Box Use this dialog box to define mappings between attributes in an XML file and variables on a data card. Creating an Export Rule Create an export rule to export SOLIDWORKS PDM BOM variables to an XML file that can be read into an ERP system. Export Rule Dialog Box Use the Export Rule dialog box to configure rules that export data to XML files. Working with Transition Actions To update variables, the file in the vault must pass through a workflow transition that includes the import transition. Troubleshooting Tips Tips to help troubleshoot XML import problems: