Introduction to the XML Landbase Loader for Smallworld databases

we-do-IT have been involved with the design, delivery and loading of the incremental landbase for Smallworld customers since its inception over five years ago. Throughout this time we-do-IT has worked with Land Victoria in the development, testing and identification of data integrity issues related to incremental updates for Vicmap.

we-do-IT now offers a comprehensive Incremental XML Landbase process with an easy to use Smallworld XML Landbase Loader.

we-do-IT’s XML Landbase Loader allows the loading of the new Vicmap Products, namely:

• Vicmap Property
• Vicmap Address
• Vicmap Transport
• Vicmap Admin

With priority on data integrity, the Vicmap products are loaded into Smallworld datastores via the new incremental XML files and we-do-IT’s user friendly loader interface. we-do-IT’s XML Landbase Loader was developed to specifically address:

1. Smallworld Data Model:

In order to comply with the complex data model associated with the Vicmap Products, we-do-IT has constructed an efficient Smallworld data model. This data model is the result of extensive experience with the Vicmap Landbase for utilities, optimises the incremental process and minimises the resultant Smallworld datastore.

2. XML Format File Sizes:

The XML Landbase Loader specifically addresses the issue of large incremental XML file sizes. By using specific parsing techniques the XML loader is able to achieve efficient load throughput.

3. Inbuilt Integrity Checking:

Significant data checking is required to ensure ongoing data integrity for the data model structures and individual field types. we-do-IT’s accumulated experience with the incremental files over five years ensures that the required checks have been incorporated into the incremental XML Landbase Loader.

4. Release Process Service:

A release process is available and has been streamlined throughout the past 5 years. This service includes full data checking before release of the incremental files and simplified loading strategies for customers. The steps involved are:

a. Preliminary testing of incremental loads prior to distribution:
All files are pre-loaded and tested on a local database to check for any data integrity issues or dramatic data model issues. This includes a full load of the initial seed files, which are needed after each data model change.
b. Seed file release:
Seed files, once tested, could be supplied to the customers as Smallworld data stores pre-loaded by we-do-IT.
c. Incremental file release:
Once tested the incremental files are delivered via an FTP, CD or an automated method of the customer’s choice.