'Invalid Dim' error during dynamic dim building

Question

Hi Folks,
I am trying to update an outline using my own dim rules file and data .txt file, but i get an error in the dimbuild log file saying "\\Column 7 - Invalid Dimension" What could be the reason for this? The outline already contains 5 standard dims (i.e. Customer, Period, Account, Scenario and Year) and 2 more attribute dims. My goal is to add some new members to the existing Account dim. My data file looks like this:
Account,Metrics,,O,~
Metrics, Avg_Wolverines_Juggled, Average Wolverines Juggled, S,~
Metrics, Avg_Dropped_Wolverines, Average Dropped Wolverines, S,~
Metrics,Headcount,,S,~
In the data-prep editor I have created a .rul file that has 6 columns (fields). The first field I created by mistake, so I have set it to 'ignore field..' under 'dim build properties'. The next 5 fields map correctly to the way I have arranged my data file, i.e Parent0, Account Child0, Account Alias0, Account Property0, Account Property0, Account
This .rul file validates correctly, but when I try to update the outline, I get the "\\Column 7 - Invalid Dimension" error log message. The log msg says that the data file contains an error, but may have partially loaded data. However, I don't see a SINGLE new member added to the outline..
In terms of settings, everything under 'Dim Build Properties' seems fine. i.e. for each field the correct dim type (e.g. Parent, Child, Alias, or Property) and dim name (i.e. Account) is selected. However, under 'Dim Build Settings', when i try to choose 'Account' as the dim name, it reverts back to the name of the first dim in the outline (i.e. Customer) whenever I close/reopen 'Dim Build Settings' This happens even though I do a double-click and make sure 'Account' is shown in Blue before closing out of 'Dim Build Settings' Could this have something to do with the error I am getting? I have also made sure that the 'Build Method' is correct (i.e. Parent/Child references) for the two main dim fields. As per my understanding, for alias and properties fields, the Build Method doesn't matter.
I apologize for the long question, but would really appreciate some help.
thanks,
Akshay

Answer 1

Ah good old wolvering Juggling. The problem is they will bite you if you are not careful. (It's a nice metaphor for essbase). learning from Edwards book I see.
your file looks like it only has five columns and you say you created a sixth column that you set to ignore. The message indicates there is a 7th column. Open your load rule and your data file and see if in fact there is a trailing column. Also, make sure you set the dimension build properties for the account dimension to be parent/child