The master data information matrix in Business Central lets you define your own columns, import data, and mass update records across a wide range of entities. You open it directly from a card or list, set up the columns you want to see, and work with the data in a structured overview.
You can use the information matrix on items, item variants, serial and lot number information, customers, vendors, contacts, service items, shipping addresses, sales and purchase order lines, projects and project task lines, as well as the chart of accounts and fixed assets.
On sales and purchase lines you can import data using either standard field filters or an advanced specification search. For example, you can filter on document type “Order”, use “Add lines” to pull all matching sales order lines into the matrix, and then mass update them in one place.
What the information matrix does in Business Central
The master data information matrix exists on many different entities in Business Central. On the item card, for instance, you can open the information matrix, define your own columns, and update the values directly. The same functionality is available on customer cards and on the serial number information list.
The logic is the same everywhere. You open the matrix from the relevant page, set up the columns you need, import the data, and work with it from there. This gives you a consistent way to view and edit master data, no matter which part of the system you are working in.
Using the information matrix on sales and purchase lines
You can also use the information matrix on sales and purchase lines. From a sales order, open the sales line and then open the information matrix. From here you have two ways to bring in data:
- Standard fields and information code
- Advanced specification search
As an example, you can set the document type to “Order” and import all sales orders. Selecting “Add lines” pulls all your sales order lines into the matrix. You then define the columns you want to see, mass update the data, and get a clear overview of all the lines you are working with.
Pages and entities where the information matrix is available
The information matrix is spread across the different departments in Business Central, including production planning, purchasing, and sales. Here is where you can find it:
- Items and item variants, so you can mass update variant data
- Serial number and lot number information lists
- Vendors and customers
- Service items
- Shipping addresses and contacts
- Purchase order lines and sales order lines
- Projects and project task lines (previously called jobs and job task lines)
- Chart of accounts and fixed assets
These are all the pages where you can currently access the information matrix, mass update records, and get an overview of your data.
Q&A
What is the master data information matrix in Business Central?
It is a feature that lets you open a matrix view on a card or list, define your own columns, import data, and mass update records. The logic works the same way across all the entities where it is available.
Which entities support the information matrix?
Items, item variants, serial number and lot number information lists, vendors, customers, service items, shipping addresses, contacts, purchase order lines, sales order lines, projects, project task lines, the chart of accounts, and fixed assets.
How do I import data into the information matrix on a sales line?
Open the sales line from a sales order and open the information matrix. You can import data using either standard fields and information code or the advanced specification search. For example, filter on document type “Order” and select “Add lines” to pull all matching sales order lines into the matrix.
Can I mass update records using the information matrix?
Yes. After you define the columns you want and import the relevant lines, you can mass update the values and work with all the records from a single overview.