Workflow data

In a workflow, data is passed between connectors as JSON objects. When a connector executes, it produces output data that becomes the input for the next connector in the workflow. This allows workflows to process, transform, and use data generated by earlier steps. Each connector in the workflow represents a step, and the data generated at each step can be used by subsequent connectors.

Viewing Connector Data

After a connector runs, you can inspect the data it produces directly in the workflow editor.

To view connector data:

1. Select the connector in the workflow.

2. Open the Output tab in the connector panel.

3. Expand the JSON fields to inspect the data structure.

The output panel displays the JSON structure produced by the connector, including nested objects and fields that can be used by other connectors in the workflow.

Using Data from Previous Steps

Connectors often require data generated by earlier steps in the workflow. When configuring connector parameters, you can reference data from previous steps directly within the connector settings.

To use data from a previous step:

1. Open the connector where the data is required.

2. Locate the parameter you want to configure.

3. Click on the field, the Data Selector panel will appear. Select the step and the specific field you want to use.

Data produced by earlier steps becomes available to subsequent steps in the workflow, allowing connectors to share and reuse information throughout the automation process.

Setting Dynamic Parameters

Many connectors include parameters that define how the connector behaves. These parameters can be configured by selecting the connector in the workflow, which opens the connector settings panel.

Parameters can be configured in two ways:

1. Static Values: You can manually enter fixed values directly in the parameter field.

2. Dynamic Values: You can use data generated by previous workflow steps to populate the parameter automatically.

To configure a dynamic parameter:

1. Select the connector in the workflow.

2. Locate the parameter you want to configure.

3. Click the [f] icon next to the parameter field.

4. Choose the step and output field that contains the required data or click the [f] again to skip the dynamic parameter.

5. For more advanced usages, you can enter an expression to set the value of the parameter. You can do this by either typing an expression value, or selecting one of the values from the input data

The selected value will automatically be used during workflow execution. Dynamic parameters allow workflows to adapt to incoming data and make it possible for connectors to share and reuse information generated during earlier stages of the workflow.

Binary Data

In addition to JSON data, workflows may also process binary data, such as files, images, or audio. When a connector produces binary output, the file information becomes available to subsequent connectors in the workflow. These connectors can then process, store, or transmit the file as part of the workflow.

Using JavaScript in the Code Connector

For advanced scenarios, the Code connector allows you to modify workflow data using JavaScript. The connector receives input data as an array of objects. Each object contains a json field that stores the connector output data.

Example:

for (item of items) {
  const myNumber = item.json.myNumber;

  if (myNumber > 5) {
    item.json.myString = "Example string.";
  }
}

return items;

In this example, the Code connector reads data from the input JSON, applies custom logic, and returns the modified output for the next connector in the workflow.