Evolving from one data type to another is not automatically due to the side effects of conversions.

Mdriven provides different options for converting data types,

1. Using FormerNames property setting.
2. Using a method.
3. Using derived attributes (Recommended).
4. Using SafeCast.

Important to know before performing a conversion

• Data conversions have to be done meticulously that as they can result in data loss. Backup your database before performing any conversions.

Using FormerNames property setting

- Set New Type on Attribute

- The easiest way to use this is using the rename option

- Rename the attribute to a new name and make sure to check Set Former Name checkbox

   When you rename an attribute, the previous attribute will be dropped or destroyed and attribute with new name is created.

   Checking the Set Former Name checkbox will add the previous attribute name in the Database property setting FormerNames.

- Upload model

   MDriven evolver will try to transform to transfered and transform data from the old attribute to the new attribute.

   After checking and making sure the data has been successfully transformed. rename the attribute to its previous name and

   make sure to check Set Former Name checkbox. and upload the model

Conversions are not automatically available in mdriven

Using Method

- Using a method can be more useful in scenarios where you want to be more explicit about your conversion or want to combine data of

   two attributes into one

- Start by adding a method to a class

- Goto method body and use EAL expressions for your transformation.

- Open debugger

- Run method in Action mode for the instances you would like to peform transformations on

- Dont forget to save after executing the expression

Using Derived Attributes (Recommended)

- Using derived attributes ensures there are no side effects on your data. With this option current data is retained and your to

   try other data conversions and transformations without affecting the data.

- You can use the new data attributes with the old data types incase you change your mind, just delete the new derived attribute

   and continue using your old data type. Deleting a derived attribute will not have any effect on your data in the database.

- Use derived attributes to also test out other transformations with out side effects.

- Use derived attributes to test new types or other types - ensures that data is retained and new type is also available

- Derived attributes can also be used for complex transformations