1. Introduction to Datablocks in Sesimi
Definition and Purpose:
Data blocks are foundational elements in Sesimi, used to store metadata that describes each asset’s characteristics. This metadata can include anything from brand details to colour options, making Data blocks an essential tool for asset management and content control.
Use Cases:
Data blocks offer significant value in managing asset usage and distribution. For example, by linking specific metadata to assets (like a Toyota Yaris's make, model, and year), Sesimi users can quickly determine where and how each asset can be utilised, such as automatically including a disclaimer in ads or restricting permissions based on dealership availability.
Example:
2. Key Features of Data Blocks
Data Structure:
Data blocks provide a structured way to store and organise metadata, allowing users to retrieve, categorise, and use asset details without manual intervention. This organised structure ensures that all essential information is easily accessible and centrally stored.
Flexibility and Customisation:
Each Data block can be customised to include the most relevant fields for a particular asset type. For instance, a “Vehicle” Data block can include fields for brand, model, colour and more, giving users the flexibility to tailor metadata to each asset’s needs.
Data Integrity and Consistency:
By centralising metadata in Data blocks, Sesimi helps maintain consistency across all assets, reducing errors or inconsistencies that could arise from manually inputting details.
Efficiency in Content Creation:
Data blocks streamline workflows by automatically inserting relevant metadata, such as a disclaimer or model details, into creative content. This automation reduces the need for manual input, making content creation faster and more reliable.
3. Setting Up a Data block
Step-by-Step Instructions:
We have a comprehensive guide to creating Data blocks, offering detailed instructions, best practices, and tips on structuring Data blocks efficiently. This guide covers effective naming conventions and field organisation to ensure data consistency across users.
To create a Data block, start by giving it a clear name (e.g., 'Vehicle') and adding fields that capture essential metadata (e.g., Brand, Model, Year). Data blocks can be set up in the Settings area. Once you've created the Data block and defined its fields, you can add records and begin linking data to specific assets.
4. Managing Data blocks
Editing Existing Data blocks:
Sesimi provides two convenient ways to edit existing Data blocks, allowing you to either make quick adjustments directly in the platform or perform bulk updates using a .csv file.
Method 1: Edit Directly in the Platform
Access the Data block Section: Navigate to the Data blocks section in Settings.
Find the Row to Edit: Locate the specific Data block row you want to edit.
Edit the Row: Click on the edit (pencil icon) next to the row. This opens an editable view where you can modify individual fields directly within the platform.
Save Changes: Once you've made the necessary adjustments, ensure you save your changes to update the Data block immediately.
Method 2: Edit Using a .csv File
Download .csv Data: In the Data blocks section, click on the Download dropdown and select Download .csv data. This downloads the entire Data block dataset as a .csv file.
Make Edits in the Spreadsheet: Open the .csv file in a spreadsheet application (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets) and edit the data fields as needed. This method is ideal for making bulk changes across multiple records.
Upload the Edited .csv File: Once you’ve made and saved your edits, return to the platform, click Upload .csv, and select your updated file. This will overwrite the existing data in the Data block with the updated information from the .csv file.
Verify Updates: After uploading, review the Data block to ensure all changes have been applied correctly.
Access Permissions:
Only Admin users have access to Data blocks for viewing, editing, or deleting. If you need further information or assistance with a Data block, please contact our support team. Be sure to specify the name of the Data block you need help with and the details of the required changes or additions.
5. Best Practices for Using Data blocks
Regular Reviews:
We recommend regularly reviewing Data blocks to ensure metadata is current, especially for assets that might change over time (like updated vehicle models).
Consistency in Naming and Field Usage:
We strongly encourage a consistent naming structure to prevent duplication or confusion, such as standardising model names and years.
Avoiding Redundancy:
To avoid creating duplicate Data blocks, check for existing ones before creating new ones, especially when dealing with large libraries of assets.
6. Troubleshooting Common Issues with Data blocks
Syncing Issues:
If you're updating your Data block using a .csv, be sure not to edit or delete any data in the id column, the first column in the .csv. Potential syncing issues may arise if metadata imports don’t process correctly.
7. Conclusion
Benefits:
Data blocks streamline asset management, enhance data accuracy, and support efficient content creation workflows.
Encourage Usage:
Implementing Data blocks in your projects will benefit your organisation. By using Data blocks effectively, teams can save time and reduce errors across their content management tasks.