2.8 File Cleanup

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2.8 File Cleanup

The number of configuration files can accumulate quickly. Having fewer configuration files to manage makes focal point duties easier. Configuration focal points should:

Identify files and directories that are candidates for deletion. Some candidates for deletion are OFS legacy products/processes, old releases and patches, unused segments, and unused forecast/model data.
Discuss file deletion with other office members that help with configuration. Work with the CHPS System Manager at your office to determine what information can be removed and when. For example, consider how long you want to keep QPF grids or forecast data.
Follow the office policy on archiving old files, or develop a policy if one does not exist.

Caveat: Forecasters may wish to do a case study on an event – deleting the forecast and/or model data would be a problem.

Removing Segments

Why would you want to delete segments? Imagine your office had a location, which was no longer a real-time site, but kept in the system. Years later, a gage is installed near the old location, so a segment for the new site was developed and eventually became a new forecast point. You would need to get rid of the old site’s information so it is not confused with the new site that has data. Consider the following when deleting a segment:

Each segment has a directory of XML files for each location.
Segments are included in workflows, so deleting a segment is not as straightforward as deleting the segment directory!
Additionally you need to remove the workflow mapping of the segment in the Administration Interface.

Best Practice

Start a document containing information on which files/directories were deleted, who deleted them, and when. Having this documentation is helpful whether you work alone or on a team.

Administration Interface:

Recall from Introduction to CHPS, the Administration Interface is web-based tool used to schedule and map forecast tasks. If you are unfamiliar with the interface, talk with your office System Manager or see the System Manager Training module.