Generating and editing ReqIF import mapping files
ReqIF imports to Helix ALM require a mapping file, which associates ReqIF types to Helix ALM types. Mapping files are text-based files that use YAML, which is easy to edit and understand.
The first time you import a ReqIF file, you need to create a mapping file. The best way to create one is to generate it from the ReqIF Import dialog box in Helix ALM. After you upload the ReqIF file, Helix ALM can generate a file that automatically maps values in the ReqIF file to the equivalent Helix ALM item or field. See Default mappings in ReqIF mapping files. You can then edit the file to create additional mappings to ensure your data is imported correctly. You use field codes or labels to indicate how to map ReqIF to Helix ALM types.
A mapping file is specific to ReqIF types. You may be able to reuse a mapping file for subsequent imports with similar data, or you can use an existing one as a starting point and then modify it as needed.
1. After uploading a ReqIF file in the ReqIF Import dialog box, click Generate New File on the Upload Mapping File page.
The mapping file (.yaml) is generated and downloaded. The filename is <ReqIF_Filename>_mapping.yaml.
2. Click View Field Codes on the Upload Mapping File page in the ReqIF Import dialog box.
The Helix ALM ReqIF Import Mapping Values page opens. This page lists the Helix ALM fields that you can map to ReqIF data in the mapping file. The page includes the following fields, field codes, and other information to use in mapping files. Field codes for custom fields are prepended with Z_ (e.g., Z_RQ_UNCERTAINTY).
- Requirement document fields — Editable system fields, custom fields except calculated fields, user fields, Attachments field
- Requirement types
- Requirement fields — Editable system fields, custom fields except calculated fields, user fields, Attachments field
- Link types — Parent/child link definitions that allow for requirements as both parents and children
- Link properties
- List fields
- List values — Values for dropdown lists included on the mapping values page
3. Open the mapping file you downloaded in an advanced text editor that supports formatting of YAML files, such as Notepad ++ or Visual Studio Code.
Using an advanced editor provides syntax highlighting and the ability to expand and collapse sections in YAML files, which makes them easier to edit it. For example, you can search for 'HALMMapping' to highlight all areas where you need to map ReqIF data to Helix ALM.
4. Use the mapping values page to map ReqIF and Helix ALM data.
When the mapping file is generated, ReqIF information is pulled from the ReqIF file selected for import and a property named HALMMapping is added to it in the mapping file. This property is used to associate ReqIF data types with Helix ALM items. Use the field code or field label from the Import Mapping Values page in the HALMMapping sections to indicate which Helix ALM types to map to the corresponding ReqIF types. See ReqIF mapping file structure and contents for more information about the mapping file.
5. Save the mapping file.
6. Upload the mapping file in the ReqIF Import dialog box. See Performing a ReqIF import.