Setting up Document Storage
When you import expense documents into Continia Expense Management, the files you import are by default stored directly in the Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central database. However, storage space limitations may make it necessary or desirable for you to store these files in other locations instead.
To calculate how much storage space you need for your files, use the following guidelines:
- The average attachment file takes up approximately 500 KB of space.
- For the vast majority of Expense Management clients, expense users will store 10 documents per month on average.
Multiplying these two numbers by the number of users expected in the system will give you a fairly precise indication of how much storage space you need.
The table below outlines the various storage options, enabling you to decide which one is right for you:
| Storage type | Description |
|---|---|
| Database | For this type of storage, documents are stored in the Business Central database. |
| Azure Blob | With this storage type, documents are stored in an Azure Blob container that you need to host yourself. For more details on how to set it up, see Setting up Azure Blob Storage. |
| File System (on-premises only) | For this storage type, documents are stored on a file server on the same LAN as the Business Central Service Tier. |
Changing document storage settings
To set up your document storage, follow these steps:
- Choose the
icon, enter Expense Management Setup, and then choose the related link. - On the General FastTab, go to Document Storage Type and select your preferred storage type in the box.
- If you select Azure Blob Storage, a dialog box appears asking you if you want to continue. Select Yes.
- The Update Storage Settings window opens. Under General, fill out all fields with the relevant details from your Azure Blob account. Select OK to close the window and update the settings.
Custom storage
Some customers prefer to store documents in their own document management system (DMS). This is somewhat more complicated and requires the assistance of a developer. If this is what you need though, you have to implement your own storage functions.
See also
Setting up Azure Blob Storage
Customizing Storage
Storage considerations when migrating to the cloud