Skip to main content

Configure intra-system relations

Data-model setup · Step 4

Connect the related records inside one system so filters, roles, and workflows can navigate identity data accurately.

An intra-system relation connects tables in the same NIM system. Configure the underlying 1-N relationships first; NIM can then derive N-N relationships from them. For a conceptual overview, see Intra-system relations.

Before you beginDirect link to Before you begin

  • Collect the tables that represent both sides of the relationship.
  • Collect the child-table column that stores the foreign-key value.
  • Assign a stable primary key to the parent table.
  • Verify that a sample of foreign-key values matches the intended parent-key values.
Validate data before configurationAutomatic suggestions use column names and data patterns as hints. Always check actual collected values before accepting a relation; a plausible name does not guarantee the records describe the same thing.

Configure 1-N relationsDirect link to Configure 1-N relations

Use a 1-N relation when many child records refer to one parent record. For example, many employees can refer to one department, or many employments can refer to one employee.

  1. Expand the system’s table list and open the N side—the child table that contains the foreign key.

  2. Open the table’s Relations tab.

  3. Choose one of the following methods:

    • Automatic: Select Determine relations automatically. Review every proposed relation in the Relations (1-N) pane.
    • Manual: Select a foreign-key column in Column Navigation, review the candidate parent-table keys and their match scores, then add the correct relationship.

  4. Repeat for each foreign key that should connect to a parent table.

  5. Select Save.

  6. Collect and load the system to populate the updated relationship data.

Configure N-N relationsDirect link to Configure N-N relations

Use an N-N relation when records on both sides can have multiple relationships. A common example is users and groups, connected through a membership table: one user can belong to many groups, and one group can have many users.

NIM calculates N-N relations from your 1-N relations. You do not define an N-N relation independently.

  1. Confirm the underlying 1-N relations are correct and save them.
  2. Select the checkbox for the N-N relation you want to enable, or clear it to disable the relation.
  3. Select Save.
  4. Collect and load the system again.

Validate the relationshipsDirect link to Validate the relationships

CheckWhat to confirm
1-N relationA child record reaches the expected parent record, and no unrelated parent is matched.
N-N relationA sample user or group shows the expected multiple related records.
Filter behaviorA test relation item returns the expected joined data.
CollectionThe system was recollected after every saved relation change.
warning

If a relationship produces unexpected results, do not work around it in a mapping. First verify collected columns, data types, key values, and the direction of the 1-N relationship.

Last updated on