Customize an out-of-the-box Data Processing Engine (DPE) template definition to add data sources or nodes, adjust transformation logic, or support business calculations not included in the template.
Required Editions
| View supported editions. |
| User Permissions Needed | |
|---|---|
| To customize a template definition: | View permissions information. |
Review the DPE template to understand how nodes are connected and referenced by downstream nodes.
Cloning a template lets you safely modify logic in a new version without affecting the original. Because cloning copies all nodes, you can use the template as a baseline to save time and maintain consistency.
Keep these best practices in mind when modifying a template:
- Make sure that you have the required setup, permissions, and object access for all objects used in the definition. See Data Processing Engine Setup.
- If you add new calculated outputs, make sure that the target fields exist and map them correctly. For example, if a new forecast metric is required, create a custom field, then add that field as a forecast measure in the forecast logic in the cloned definition.
- From Setup, find and select Data Processing Engine.
-
Search and open the out-of-the-box template that you want to customize.
Templates are read-only. In the definition list, look for definitions marked as templates.
- Click Save As.
- Provide a name and description for the new definition.
- Verify the API name and process type and modify them if needed.
-
Modify the new definition to meet business needs.
Use the builder or JSON file to add, remove, or reconfigure nodes. Keep the design considerations in mind as you work.
- Activate the definition.
A company wants to see product costs and profit margins in account forecasts. Standard templates focus on quantity and revenue. To give demand planners visibility into margins:
- Add custom measure fields to capture cost and margin.
- Update the cloned definition to compute these values from data sources.
- Write back results for forecasting and planning.
This customization helps planners make informed pricing and discounting decisions for future periods.