Outputting to an Excel template file on the server

Hi,

I've got a workflow which takes an Excel file as an input using the Blob input tool. It then outputs a copy of the file with a specific filename. Once it's outputted, data is added to the output file, essentially using the original Excel file as a template.

I want to add this to Alteryx Server by saving the input files to the gallery itself and allowing the user to download the final output file.

However, this doesn't work as Alteryx needs to output data to the blob output file after it's been created and saved down.

Does anyone know of a way around this?

Thanks

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Accepted answers

ALT_2358

Managed to get it working as expected using the run tool!

I create a copy of the template using the run tool with the correct filename then output to the newly created file.

Works on Designer and the Server for me now 🙂

All comments

JosephSerpis

Hi @ALT_2358 the trick with this approach is to get the blob input to ingest the excel template and then output the excel template with blob output before the data is outputted in the Data output tools. You can do this many ways such as ensuring the blob section is at the start of the workflow or using the Append Tool or even the block until done tool. This approach does work on the server you just need to be conscience if you uploading files and not outputting to a specific network location the server has been granted access to, they may become relative paths instead. Therefore your filepaths in the workflow may need to be amended I usually test and develop in Designer then upload to the server. Then from Designer open the workflow I just saved to server and change the filepaths as I can see they become relative paths e.g. _external_1 .

ALT_2358

Hi @JosephSerpis ,

Thanks so much for the reply!

I accidentally tapped 'accept solution' just as it was loading up on my phone screen before trying anything out - really sorry about that!

I've tried putting the blob input at the start, using an append tool then a block until done tool but I still couldn't get it to work on the server. I've used relative paths throughout.

I must be doing something wrong - would you possibly be able to check what it might be, please? I've attached a simple sample workflow with all the files. I've pasted in a screenshot below too it that's easier.

Thanks!

Blob Server Test.yxzp

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