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how to add a column to relativity

how to add a column to relativity

3 min read 05-02-2025
how to add a column to relativity

Adding columns in Relativity is crucial for organizing and analyzing data effectively. This guide will walk you through several methods, covering different scenarios and complexities. Whether you're adding a simple calculated field or a complex custom object, we've got you covered.

Understanding Relativity Columns

Before diving into the methods, let's clarify what types of columns you can add:

  • System Columns: These are pre-built columns provided by Relativity. You can't add these, but you can show or hide them as needed. Examples include Document ID, Date Created, and File Path.

  • Calculated Fields: These are derived from existing data within Relativity. You create a formula to generate values for this new column. This is perfect for adding things like a calculated score or a specific date extraction.

  • Custom Objects: These offer more advanced functionality, allowing you to link data from external sources or create complex relationships between data points. They are more involved to set up than calculated fields.

  • User Defined Fields (UDFs): These are added directly to the Relativity workspace and store data specific to your project. They are highly flexible and commonly used.

Method 1: Adding a Calculated Field

Calculated fields are great for simple data manipulations without requiring extensive database alterations.

Steps:

  1. Navigate to the workspace: Access the Relativity workspace where you need to add the column.

  2. Open the Fields tab: Within the workspace, locate and open the "Fields" tab (usually in the workspace administration section).

  3. Create a New Calculated Field: Click the "New" button and choose "Calculated Field" as the type.

  4. Define the Formula: This is where you specify the calculation. Relativity uses a specific syntax, often similar to other programming languages. Ensure your formula is correct and considers potential data inconsistencies (null values, etc.). Relativity provides documentation on the functions available for these calculations. Consult this before beginning.

  5. Set Data Type: Choose the appropriate data type for the new column (e.g., Text, Number, Date). The choice must be compatible with your formula's output.

  6. Save and Deploy: Save the calculated field. This will usually trigger a process to add the column to the workspace.

  7. Verify: Check the workspace to ensure the new column is present and populated correctly with data.

Method 2: Adding a Custom Object

Custom objects offer significant flexibility, but their creation is more involved.

Steps:

  1. Plan your Object: Before you start, carefully define the object's purpose, fields, and relationships to other objects.

  2. Create the Object: Access the Relativity administration interface and navigate to the custom object creation section. The exact steps here will vary based on your Relativity version.

  3. Define Fields: Specify the data type and properties for each field in the custom object.

  4. Set Relationships (if applicable): Establish relationships between your new custom object and other objects in the workspace.

  5. Deploy the Object: Save and deploy the object to your workspace. This might involve some background processing.

  6. Add the Object to a View: Finally, add the custom object fields to a view within your workspace so they appear in your data grid.

Method 3: Adding a User Defined Field (UDF)

UDFs are the most common method for adding a simple, new column.

Steps:

  1. Navigate to Workspace Administration: Access your Relativity workspace and locate the administration section.

  2. Access UDF Management: Find the "User Defined Fields" or similar section within the workspace settings.

  3. Create a New UDF: Click "New" or an equivalent button.

  4. Specify Properties: Provide a name, data type, and other relevant properties for the new field.

  5. Save and Deploy: Save the changes, and the UDF should be added to your workspace. You may need to refresh your view or re-run a batch process to see the new column.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Formula Errors: Carefully check your calculated field formulas for syntax errors. Relativity's documentation often provides debugging tips.

  • Permissions: Ensure you have the necessary permissions to create fields and modify the workspace.

  • Data Type Mismatches: Verify that the data type of your calculated field or UDF aligns with the expected output.

  • Deployment Issues: If the new column doesn't appear, check for any deployment errors in the Relativity logs. Contact your Relativity administrator if you encounter problems.

Adding a column to Relativity empowers you to organize and analyze your data more effectively. By understanding the different methods—calculated fields, custom objects, and UDFs—you can choose the best approach for your specific needs. Remember to consult Relativity's documentation for detailed steps and specific instructions based on your version of the software.

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