Fill Method Collection

Executes multiple Data Fill Methods in sequence to populate descendant data elements of a container.

Remarks

The Fill Method Collection class enables you to configure and run a set of Data Fill Methods as a group, providing a flexible mechanism for combining multiple extraction, lookup, or population strategies within a single container.

Role in Grooper

• Used to orchestrate the execution of several Data Fill Methods for a Data Model, Data Section, or Data Table.
• Each fill method in the collection is evaluated and executed in order, allowing for layered or conditional extraction workflows.
• Supports advanced scenarios where multiple extraction techniques, lookups, or custom logic need to be applied to the same set of data elements.

How It Works

• Add one or more Data Fill Methods to the collection using the property grid or collection editor.
• During extraction, each fill method is checked for its execution condition and run if applicable.
• The results of each fill method are merged, with later methods able to overwrite or supplement data populated by earlier ones.
• Diagnostic information is logged for each fill method, supporting review and troubleshooting.

Configuration Guidance

• Use the collection to combine standard extractors, lookups, and custom fill methods for complex document types.
• The order of fill methods in the collection determines their execution sequence and can affect final data values.
• Configure triggers and overwrite settings on individual fill methods to control when and how they operate.

Diagnostics

• Logs execution details for each fill method, including which methods ran and any changes made to data elements.
• Diagnostic artifacts are created for each method, supporting review and troubleshooting of extraction workflows.

Notes

• Fill Method Collection is ideal for scenarios requiring multiple, coordinated extraction or population steps.
• For best results, carefully plan the order and configuration of fill methods to avoid unintended data overwrites.

Properties

Name	Type		Description
General
Fill Methods	Data Fill Method[]	►	The list of Data Fill Methods to execute in sequence for this container. EditorObject Collection Editor ConverterCollection Converter Specifies the set of Data Fill Methods that will be run as part of the collection. Each fill method represents a distinct extraction, lookup, or population strategy. Fill methods are executed in the order they appear in the list; later methods can overwrite or supplement earlier results. Use the collection editor to add, remove, or reorder fill methods as needed for your workflow. Configure triggers and overwrite settings on individual fill methods to control their behavior. Example: Add a standard extractor, followed by a lookup method, and then a custom fill method to handle special cases.
Name	String	►	A descriptive name for this data fill operation. Requiredtrue The 'Name' property identifies this fill method within the list of fill methods attached to a Data Model, Data Section, or Data Table. Use a clear, descriptive name to indicate the purpose or strategy of the fill method (e.g., "Run Child Extractors", "External Lookup", "Custom Calculation"). The name is displayed in configuration UIs and logs, and is used to distinguish between multiple fill methods on the same container. The name is also used by the Fill Descendants command to identify which fill methods to execute during extraction.
Options
Trigger	Boolean Expression	►	An optional Boolean expression determining whether this fill method should run automatically during extraction. ConverterConverter The 'Trigger' property allows you to specify a condition under which this fill method will execute. If left empty, the fill method always runs. Enter a Boolean expression referencing data values, variables, or context to control execution. This enables conditional extraction logic, such as running a fill method only for certain document types or when specific data is present. Example: @DocumentType == "Invoice" && @TotalAmount > 0

See Also

Boolean Expression