Ghost Input Data

[Kaisa77]

I think it would be great to introduce something like Ghost Input Data tool. The tool would refer to an Input Data tool that is used in the same workflow multiple times but is placed far from several other tools it needs to be connected to. This way the data would have to be loaded once and annoying and distracting connecting lines can be avoided.

[KylieF]

Hi @Kaisa77 ,

Based on your description of the Ghost Input Tool is sounds like you may be referring to a mixture of our wireless function, which allows connection lines to be made invisible so workflows don't become cluttered, and our caching function, which allows data to be loaded once and stored to speed up workflow run times. If that is the case you can check out our wireless functionality by selecting the input data tool and selecting 'Navigation', the third icon down on the configuration window, and checking the wireless box, and our caching function by right clicking a tool and selecting 'Cache and Run Workflow'.

If this is not the case could you please provide a use case or example scenario of when the Ghost Input Data tool would be useful?

Thank you!

KylieF

Community Operations Specialist

[Kaisa77]

Hi Kylie, 

I'm so glad I posted the suggestion because I learned about wireless connection, which I think is going to be really helpful for complex workflows. However, my suggestion was different and let me try to explain it better. Say, an input tool (A) is linked to tool B and C. You place the input tool A close to B and you place "ghost" input tool D close to B. D won't load the data again, but its configuration will be set up so that it retrieves the data loaded by input tool A.  

[KylieF]

@Kaisa77

Glad I could help with the wireless connections! I believe I understand the goal for your idea as well. However to help get the Community to back this feature and for our Product Managers to fully grasp the concept and its use, could you provide an example use case where this feature would be beneficial?