The "Data Model" section in Experiture is essential for managing and customizing the structure of your data. This guide will explain how to use the data model, define fields in each Target record, use the graphic visualization screen, add custom fields, and why customizing fields might be important for your marketing campaigns.
1. Navigating to the Data Model Section
The "Data Model" section can be found in the left-hand Navigation sidebar, under "Targets", on the "Data Model" tab. Once inside, you will be presented with two key components:
Relationship Visualization: This view helps you understand the relationships between various tables or data sets.
Tables List: This provides an overview of all the tables that exist within the system, allowing you to manage or create new tables for data entry.
2. Defining Fields in Each Target Record
The system comes preconfigured with essential fields that are automatically populated in every Target record, such as "First Name," "Last Name," "Email Address," and "Company." These fields ensure basic information capture for your marketing targets. To define or customize these fields:
Select the Profile (Main) Table: You can access and manage the primary fields here.
Editing Fields: Click on the pencil icon beside each field to edit the field’s properties, such as its name or type.
3. Using the Graphic Visualization Screen
The Relationship Visualization screen offers a visual overview of the relationships between tables. You can:
See how tables link to one another, including the connections between fields.
Drag and drop tables to understand how different data sets are related.
Modify relationships by connecting fields between tables visually, ensuring that the data structure reflects your campaign and operational needs.
This visualization is helpful in understanding the architecture of your data and how different tables and fields interact within your marketing ecosystem.
4. Adding Custom Fields
Custom fields allow you to tailor the platform to meet your specific needs. Whether you need to track industry-specific information or capture additional data points for segmentation, custom fields help enhance your database structure. To add a custom field:
Click on the "Add Custom Field" button in the "Tables List" view.
Define the field’s properties, such as:
Field Name: A unique name for your custom field.
Field Label: The display name users will see.
Data Type: Choose the appropriate data type (e.g., text, number, phone number, email).
Description: A brief note explaining the field's purpose, which is useful for others who may manage the data.
Options: Configure additional settings, such as making the field required or setting default values.
Once defined, the custom field is available for use in the target records or tables.
5. Why Would You Add Custom Fields?
There are several reasons why you may want to create custom fields:
Personalization: Custom fields allow for more granular data, enabling you to deliver personalized marketing experiences.
Segmentation: Capture specific data points that help you segment your audience more effectively.
Industry-Specific Data: In some industries, you may need to track information that is not included in the default fields. Custom fields ensure you can capture this data in a structured format.
Analytics: More data means more insights. Custom fields help you analyze patterns and performance more accurately.
Conclusion
The Data Model feature in Experiture allows you to take control of your data by managing predefined fields and adding custom ones that suit your specific marketing needs. Use the Relationship Visualization to understand how tables and data sets are connected, ensuring a seamless flow of information across your platform. This flexibility ensures that your marketing campaigns are as targeted and efficient as possible.