---
title: Introduction
slug: 7KNY-introduction
createdAt: 2025-07-14T02:49:30.442Z
---



Connectors bring external data into Activate on a repeatable schedule, detect changes, and trigger the right workflows automatically. Each connector is a self-contained unit with its own **schema**, **workflow**, and **change handlers**, so you can run many connectors in parallel without overlap.

# What Connectors do

- **Import** data from source systems into a staging (**Import**) table
- **Compare** staged data with current (**Data**) table to detect **create / update / delete** events
- **Process** each change using configurable handlers (e.g., Users, Roles, Generic, Script, Tickets)
- **Act** by submitting jobs, executing scripts, publishing/unpublishing, or sending notifications

# Why use them

- Keep Activate aligned with HR, ERP, CMDB, or ticketing systems
- Drive lifecycle automation from real data changes
- Maintain a clear audit of imports and state changes

# How a connector is structured

- **Schema** — Defines tables (`dataTable`, `importTable`, `historyTable`) and their columns, keys, and delete rules
- **Workflow** — Defines steps that load data, detect changes, and run handlers (`clearImport`, `import`, `processImport`, `process`, plus optional steps like `execute`, `run`, `notify`)
- **Change & Link Handlers** — Define how detected changes are acted upon or linked to existing Activate objects (e.g., AD users, roles, tickets)

# Who this section is for

- **Implementers & Administrators** designing data flows and guardrails
- **Developers** extending import providers or event logic
- **Operations teams** monitoring connector runs and troubleshooting errors

# Typical use cases

- **HR feed → User provisioning:** create, move, and disable users automatically
- **Department hierarchy → Roles:** keep organisational roles aligned with external structures
- **Service desk integration → Ticket sync:** update Activate tickets based on external statuses

Think of a connector as: \*\*Data shape (Schema)\*\* ➜ \*\*Change detection (Workflow)\*\* ➜ \*\*Business action (Handlers)\*\*.