Export/Import Overview

Learn more about the Export/Import functionality to quickly update metadata across the platform.

The CSV Export/Import feature in Decube allows users to efficiently manage large volumes of metadata by enabling bulk download, update, and creation of metadata items using standardized CSV templates. Whether you're migrating systems, cleaning up data, or onboarding new content, this feature empowers data teams to handle these operations in a streamlined, self-serve manner.

What is CSV Export/Import?

CSV Export/Import enables users to:

• Export existing metadata into structured CSV files for bulk review and edits.

• Export empty templates for adding new entries.

• Import metadata back into Decube by uploading completed CSV files to apply updates or create new records.

This is especially useful for:

• Mass editing descriptions, tags, owners, classifications, and other attributes.

• Creating multiple glossary or policy entries at once.

• Reducing manual work through structured, repeatable workflows.

Who Can Use This?

Only users who are part of the Owner group within Decube can access and perform Export or Import operations. This ensures data governance and control over bulk metadata operations.

When Should You Use Export vs Import?

Action	Use Export	Use Import
Download existing metadata for edits	✅
Update metadata in bulk		✅ (after exporting and editing CSV)
Create new glossary or policy items	✅ for downloading the template	✅ (using provided template)

• Start with Export if you need a snapshot of current metadata for edits.

• Use Import to apply your changes or upload new metadata via Decube’s supported CSV templates.

Supported Metadata Objects

CSV Export/Import supports the following object types:

• Catalog (Datasets): Schemas, Tables, Columns

• Catalog (Non-Datasets): Dashboards, Charts, Data Jobs

• Glossary: Glossaries, Categories, Terms

• Policies: Classification Policies

Each object type has its own CSV format and set of editable attributes.

Key Considerations Before Using

• Permissions: Only Owners can perform Export/Import.

• Data Accuracy: All changes made via Import are final and cannot be reversed. Ensure data is correct before uploading.

• Template Usage: Always download the correct template from the Export tab before starting.

  • Use "Edit existing items" to get a pre-filled file.

  • Use "Add new items" to download a blank template.

• Single Source Limitation: For Catalog export, you can select and export metadata from only one data source at a time.

• Validation Checks: Decube performs smart validations on Import to flag incorrect data. Errors and warnings will be shown before submission.

• History Tab: All Export/Import operations are logged here with statuses, error reports, and download options.

Ready to get started? Head to the Export/Import tab in your Decube workspace to begin your first bulk metadata operation.