How it Works |
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Xporter is a windows-based application which is installed alongside each database performing tasks that are easily set up by the user in a "definition file". Installation is very simple, taking just a matter of minutes and, once running, the system requires little intervention or support.
Users can edit definition files, enabling them to identify or change the information they require, the frequency of reporting and where the system should deliver the data. Definition files can be replaced without stopping Xporter, which automatically detects that the definition file has been changed and reloads it.
Data can be retrieved in a number of formats, including MAPI email; SMTP email; copied to a directory (such as a corporate network or WAN), or through secure data transfer software such as AnyComms from AVCO.
Data can be accessed in a number of ways. Users of Integris, Phoenix, Serco Facility or SIMS (Dbase or SIMS.NET) can access data using a standard SQL select statement. Groupcall provides starter files which cover most local authority requirements and can help with future changes if there is nobody within the authority familiar with SQL queries.
There are also enhanced features of Xporter that make it more powerful when used with SIMS.NET. The authority can define the data they want in a SIMS.NET report which is then exported. The Xporter installs the SIMS.NET report automatically in the school system when it runs. The reports can contain any data items (including attendance) and filters. Xporter will run the report and extract the specified data, which can then be delivered to the authority in XML or CSV format in the usual way. Groupcall is a technical partner with Capita for SIMS.
