Preparing your data sources for tagging

Introduction

Use this article when preparing financial data for XBRL or iXBRL reporting in Tangelo. A well-structured data source helps ensure a smooth tagging process, reduces validation issues, and makes future updates easier to manage.

Summary

By preparing your Excel source files according to XBRL requirements, you can simplify tagging, improve validation results, and ensure that synchronized tables remain reliable throughout the reporting process.

Overview

Work with synchronized tables

In Tangelo, financial data is typically managed through synchronized tables linked to an uploaded Excel data source.

When a source file is updated and synchronized, all linked tables in the report are updated automatically. This helps maintain consistency across the report and simplifies the update process when financial figures change.

Structure financial statements clearly

Organize the consolidated financial statements into separate tables within the source file.

A clear structure makes it easier to map concepts and apply tags during the XBRL process.

Include calculations and totals

Ensure that all required subtotals and totals are included in the source data.

The XBRL engine uses these calculations during validation and to build calculation relationships. Missing totals or incomplete calculations can lead to validation issues later in the process.

Use named ranges

When configuring synchronized tables, use named ranges instead of fixed cell ranges wherever possible.

Named ranges automatically expand when rows are added and help ensure that future updates remain connected to the correct data. Fixed ranges may require manual maintenance whenever the structure of the source file changes.

Ensure all facts contain values

Every tagged fact must contain a value.

Avoid leaving cells empty and avoid using dashes to represent missing values. If a fact has no value to report, use 0 instead (or -).

This helps prevent validation errors and ensures that facts can be processed correctly by the XBRL engine.

Apply consistent number formatting

Use a consistent format throughout the source file.

For example:

• Use the same reporting unit throughout the statement (such as thousands or millions).
• Use a consistent number of decimal places.
• Ensure similar disclosures use the same formatting approach.

Consistent formatting improves data quality and reduces the risk of tagging and validation issues.

Understand calculation relationships

XBRL calculation relationships can only be established when the relevant facts are located within the same table or named range.

For example, a total assets line can only be linked to its underlying asset components if all related facts are included within the same table structure.

When related facts are spread across multiple tables or ranges, calculation relationships may not be recognized during tagging and validation.

Remarks

• Review the structure of your source data before starting the tagging process.
• Changes to the source file structure after tagging may require updates to synchronized tables and mappings.
• If you need assistance preparing source files or creating named ranges, contact your Tangelo representative.