To rename or or not to rename inside a yxmd's XML code?

[AmNotARobot]

Hello Alteryx Community,

Is it a valid option to process field name changes directly against an Alteryx module’s XML code? Was wondering about this option in case using the Alteryx application itself for field renaming “triggered” anything that simply changing the field name value directly against the XML code would not “trigger”. Does my question make sense?

Are there any known pitfalls using XML editing for field name changes?

Thank you, Ian

[MarqueeCrew]

You should be safe, but I'm wondering if this is the better approach. 

cheers,

 mark

[AmNotARobot]

Hello Mark,

Thank you for your extremely prompt response.

We are about to process a large set of field name changes (100+) against a workflow with over 1,000 tools in a short time period. We would prefer making the changes the best way.

By your response were you steering us towards processing name changes within Alteryx application, and away from XML file edits?

Thank you, Ian

[MarqueeCrew · Accepted solution]

If the name change cascade through loads of tools, this approach will simplify your work. Remember to test however!  

the use of dynamic rename and or manual updates using new Update fields in designer avoids the editing of xml. 

I'm good either way. 

cheers,

 mark