Operation
Once a metadata file is chosen for import, the utility creates a tab in Microsoft Excel for each section of the import file. It then writes the contents of that section to the tab. Sections for custom dimensions are dynamically added as well:
In .app metadata files, hierarchies are divided into two sections:
(1) a Hierarchy section, which defines the parent-child structure of the dimension
and
(2) a Member section, which defines member properties.
Below is an example of a Hierarchy section as imported by the utility (tab Entity H). Dimension members are displayed in a tree structure with each level in a separate column.
The visual structure of the hierarchy can be edited in Excel and saved back to an .app file for loading to HFM.
Below is an example of a Member section (tab Entity M). Each member is listed once along with its properties. The members and properties can also be edited and saved:
Other sections of the .app file — such as Application Settings, Currencies, Consolidation Methods, and Celltext Labels — are also imported:
Importing Files
Step 1: Extract an .app file from HFM.
Step 2: Open the utility in Excel. (Be sure to enable macros.)
Step 3: On the Main tab, select the Import/Export button.
A file selection dialog will appear.
Step 4: On the first row, click on the File Selection button (square box with three ellipses) to select the import file. The full file path will be placed in the text box to the left. (You can also enter the import file path directly into the text box.)
Step 5: Select the Import Type (see the Hierachy Import Options section below for more information) and click on the Import button. You will receive a confirmation message when the process is complete.
Exporting Files
Click on the File Selection button (three ellipses) on the second row to select an export destination, then click on the Export button to create an .app file.
Hierarchy Import Options
There are three Import Types for hierarchies:
Hierarchy
Dimension members are displayed in a tree structure with each level in a separate column. Member names are listed for reference in red in the first column to the right of the hierarchy:
Hierarchy w/ Properties
This option is the same as Hierarchy, except properties for each member are also displayed to the right of the hierarchy for reference. This format is great for review but takes much longer to import. The member properties (in red) are not editable on this tab. Changes are not saved. Member properties must still be edited on the Members tab.
Parent/Child
This option imports the hierarchy in raw Parent/Child two-column format as it appears in the .app file. It's useful for certain types of mass edits.
Disclaimer
I've made every effort to ensure this tool is bug-free and works correctly. You use this utility at your own risk, however. Also, I will make good faith efforts to respond to questions, but the utility comes without support.