Incremental vs Full Loads in Oracle Fusion HCM HDL – When to Use Which and Why
Description
Understand the difference between Incremental and Full Loads in Oracle Fusion HCM HDL. Learn when to use each approach, with real project scenarios, best practices, and common pitfalls.
Introduction
Oracle Fusion HCM Data Loader (HDL) supports two primary data loading strategies: Incremental Loads and Full Loads. Choosing the wrong approach can lead to data corruption, missing records, or unnecessary rework.
This blog explains what incremental and full loads are, how they work in HDL, and when you should use each, based on real-world Fusion HCM implementation and support scenarios.
What Is a Full Load in HDL?
A Full Load means loading the entire dataset for an object, regardless of whether the data already exists in Fusion HCM.
Key Characteristics
Loads all records (existing + new)
Often uses CREATE or MERGE operations
Commonly used during initial data migration
Higher processing time and system impact
Example Scenarios
Initial employee migration during implementation
POD refresh followed by complete data reload
Rebuilding corrupted or missing data
Sample Use Case
Loading all employees, assignments, jobs, and positions into a new Fusion environment before go-live.
What Is an Incremental Load in HDL?
An Incremental Load updates or inserts only changed or new records since the last successful load.
Key Characteristics
Loads delta data only
Typically uses MERGE operation
Faster execution
Lower risk when handled correctly
Example Scenarios
Daily employee hires, updates, or terminations
Compensation changes
Assignment changes
Key Differences: Incremental vs Full Load
When Should You Use a Full Load?
Use Full Load when:
Performing initial data migration
Reloading data after environment refresh
Correcting major data inconsistencies
Migrating large master data like jobs, grades, or positions
⚠️ Caution
Full loads can:
Overwrite data unintentionally
Impact system performance
Cause duplicate or effective-dating issues
Always test in a lower environment first.
When Should You Use Incremental Load?
Use Incremental Load when:
Making day-to-day HR updates
Loading new hires or assignment changes
Updating compensation or manager changes
Handling regular integrations from source systems
Best Practice
Track changes using Last Updated Date from source systems
Maintain strict SourceSystemOwner consistency
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using Full Load for Daily Updates
This increases risk and processing time.
❌ Incorrect Operation Type
Using CREATE instead of MERGE can cause duplicate records.
❌ Poor Effective Date Management
Misaligned dates can lead to missing assignment or period of service errors.
Best Practices for HDL Load Strategy
Use Full Load only when absolutely necessary
Default to Incremental Loads for production support
Validate effective dates before every load
Maintain a load control and audit mechanism
Review HDL .log and .out files after each run
Real Project Recommendation
Implementation Phase: Full Load
Post Go-Live: Incremental Load only
Post Refresh: Full Load (selective objects)
This hybrid approach minimizes risk and ensures data integrity.
Conclusion
Understanding when to use Incremental vs Full Loads in HDL is critical for a successful Fusion HCM implementation and support model. The right strategy improves performance, reduces errors, and protects production data.
A disciplined approach to HDL loading separates an average consultant from a strong Fusion HCM Technical expert.
