Introduction to HDL (HCM Data Loader)

 HCM Data Loader (HDL) is a powerful and flexible data import tool used in Oracle Fusion HCM to bulk load and maintain HCM data. It allows system administrators, implementers, and integrators to insert, update, or delete data related to employees, jobs, locations, payroll, and other human capital management (HCM) components efficiently.

🔍 What is HDL?

HCM Data Loader (HDL) is Oracle’s primary tool for loading high volumes of HCM data into the cloud application. It supports both initial data migration and ongoing data updates.

HDL uses specially formatted .dat files and zipped packages that represent business objects and their related components.

🧱 Key Features of HDL

Supports bulk data loading for Oracle HCM Cloud

Handles complex data structures with parent-child relationships

Allows data correction and deletion

Supports incremental updates and full file loads

Integrates with Oracle WebCenter Content (UCM) for file uploads

🧩 Basic HDL Components

Data File (.dat)

Contains the actual data in a structured format.

Uses a Business Object (BO) and Logical Object (LO) structure.

Example:

METADATA|Worker|SourceSystemId|PersonNumber|EffectiveStartDate|ActionCode

MERGE|Worker|123|P001|2024-01-01|HIRE

Zip File

A compressed file that includes one or more .dat files and any required attachments like documents or images.

Uploaded to Oracle UCM for processing.

Manifest File

Optional, used to describe the contents of the zip package.

Helps HDL understand dependencies between multiple files.

⚙️ How HDL Works

Create the .dat file with required data.

Compress the .dat file into a .zip format.

Upload the .zip to the UCM server (using web interface or scripts).

Submit the Import and Load Data process in Oracle Fusion HCM.

Monitor results in the Data Exchange area under Data Loader.

📌 Common Use Cases

Initial migration of employee data during implementation

Mass updates to job records, compensation, or locations

Import of new hires, terminations, or organizational changes

Data corrections or deletions across modules

✅ Benefits of HDL

Handles large and complex datasets

Ensures data integrity through validation and logging

Reduces manual entry and human errors

Speeds up implementation and data maintenance

🧾 Conclusion

HCM Data Loader (HDL) is an essential tool for organizations using Oracle Fusion HCM. It simplifies the process of loading and managing large volumes of HR data and is critical for both initial setup and ongoing maintenance. By understanding its structure and workflow, users can streamline data operations and ensure efficient, error-free HCM data management.

Learn Oracle Fusion HCM Training in Hyderabad

Read More:

Creating Approval Workflows in Fusion HCM

Learning and Development in Oracle Fusion

Fusion Compensation Management Explained

Understanding Fusion Time and Labor

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