Modeling products with MIF files

MIF file writing tips

For each attribute:

Choose a name (remember to use consistent naming techniques).
Assign it an ID number, unique and sequential within its group.
Write a meaningful description.
Determine what type of data will be used (integer, gauge, counter, display string, octet string or date).
Determine whether the attribute's access method should be read-only, read-write or write-only.
Determine whether the attribute's storage location should be common or specific.
Decide how the attribute's value will be derived (from within the database, or by accessing the direct interface).
Decide whether the attribute's value is a single value or is part of an indexed table of values.
If it is part of an indexed table, decide whether this attribute should contribute to the indexing key(s).

Follow the MIF grammar and syntax as described in the DMI Specification. Be sure the file is a simple ASCII text file with no embedded formatting commands or invisible characters.

It does not matter in what order the groups appear in the MIF file. The information should be organized in a way that makes sense so it can be checked, expanded or changed over time.