What is the order of steps to move data from a production instance to a test instance?

The correct answer outlines the proper sequential process for migrating data from a production instance to a test instance in the Profitability and Cost Management Cloud.

Initially, the process starts with preparation, where you assess and prepare the data to ensure it is suitable for testing. This crucial step involves understanding the structure and requirements of the target environment (test instance) to avoid any inconsistencies during migration.

Next in the sequence is the extraction of data from the production instance. At this stage, the data needed for testing is extracted comprehensively. Ensuring that this data is accurate and complete is essential for meaningful testing outcomes.

Following the extraction, the next step involves transforming the data if necessary. This could include formatting the data, ensuring it adheres to the test instance's requirements, or cleansing it to remove any unnecessary or incorrect information. Such transformations are vital to maintain data integrity and reliability within the testing phase.

Finally, the data is loaded into the test instance. This completion of the migration process allows testing to commence, using the most relevant data available without impacting the live production environment.

This structured approach ensures that each step is methodically followed, minimizing the risk of errors and enhancing the reliability of both the test instance and the subsequent analysis conducted using that data.