TM1Py Lab in Arc
The TM1py Lab would be a convenient extension to Arc that allows us to prototype and write simple TM1py scripts in Arc.
Similarly to the first MDX lab release a few years ago, it would be nice if Arc offered a simplistic UI that allows users to write and run (and potentially schedule) TM1py scripts.
Many excellent Python development tools are already available that people can use to write scripts. Nonetheless, Arc is uniquely positioned for TM1 users to offer a convenient experience in implementing TM1py scripts. Here are a few reasons why TM1py in Arc would be convenient from a user perspective
- The same UI as the rest of TM1.
- No installation of Python, PyCharm, etc., for the users
- Python scripts could be scheduled with Arc
- Low hurdle to get started with TM1py
- TM1py could use the same REST session as is used in Arc. That eliminates any need for a password in a TM1py script
Regarding the Python interpreter, Arc could offer a settings parameter where users could provide the path to a Python environment. Similar to PowerBI Desktop (screenshot below). This would mean that the installation of packages is the customer's responsibility.
Regarding the .py files that contain scripts, they could be maintained by Arc.
Python Settings in PowerBI Desktop
We might want to consider running Python in an isolated environment from Arc, to eliminate the risk of users mocking with the file system, etc.