Force data type for empty data stream

[nrossin]

Is it possible to lock the data types selected in a Select tool? The issue I'm running into is if the input dataset is empty, Alteryx (for some reason) sets all data types to double, causing many downstream tools to fail.

Since I know that the data types for the input fields will never actually change (but may be empty), can I not make sure Alteryx doesn't change them on its own?

[Jonathan-Sherman · Accepted solution]

Hi @nrossin,

If i have an example of one column (Column 1), which is a string data type:

I could force the data type to be the string by selecting String: Forced

This "Forced" option is available to keep the data type as it is and not let it change.

If this solves your issue please mark the answer as correct, if not let me know!

Regards,

Jonathan

[nrossin]

That is helpful for most datatypes, yes. I do not seem to have the option to force a Date, though?

[Jonathan-Sherman]

Hi @nrossin,

Could you provide some sample data?

If you are storing your field as a date you will have the "Date: Forced" data type option available:

If this solves your issue please mark the answer as correct, if not let me know! I've attached my workflow for you to download if needed.

Regards,

Jonathan