When it comes to Oracle Cloud EPM, the question on every admin’s mind is, “Can I automate that?” At Kscope25, Chian Lin, Solutions Architect at EPMI, offered a compelling session showing that the answer is often a resounding yes.
Overview
- Automate What Matters: Prioritize repetitive or high-impact tasks like data loads, backups, and report generation.
- Match Tools to Needs: Use Job Scheduler for simplicity, EPM Automate for scripting, and REST APIs for integration depth.
- Document Everything: Good automation is well-documented and monitored. Never automate without a logging and review process.
In his talk titled “Can I Automate That?” Chian explored three essential automation tools—Job Scheduler, EPM Automate, and REST APIs—and how they can be used to streamline, scale, and safeguard enterprise processes in the Oracle EPM ecosystem.
Why Automate?
Automation is about reliability, auditability, and scalability. Properly designed automations ensure that essential tasks run accurately every time, regardless of who is available. From backups to batch integrations, it is important to document and monitor every automation for sustainability and audit-readiness.
Job Scheduler: Built-in and Beginner-Friendly
The Job Scheduler tool within Cloud EPM allows administrators to easily set up time-based automation without needing to write code. You can automate a wide variety of tasks, including:
- Import/export of metadata and data
- Refresh database or clear cubes
- Run consolidation reports or intercompany eliminations
Plus, the Job Scheduler interface simplifies setup, recurrence, and tracking—perfect for recurring administrative duties.
EPM Automate: Scripting for Power Users
For advanced users, EPM Automate is a robust command-line utility that enables you to chain commands for powerful task automation. Some common Use cases are:
- Uploading and loading data files
- Running business rules
- Managing users and groups
- Cloning environments or generating backups
EPM Automate shines in environments that require remote management or need to integrate EPM with broader enterprise scripts.
REST APIs: The Ultimate in Flexibility
When maximum control and integration are required, REST APIs offer the deepest access to Oracle Cloud EPM. RESTful endpoints allow for real-time triggers and tight integration with external systems, perfect for organizations with DevOps or data engineering pipelines.
REST APIs can handle:
- Launching integrations
- Accessing metadata or job status
- Managing file repositories
- Triggering pipelines based on external events
Combined with tools like Postman or custom apps, REST APIs help transform your EPM environment into a truly connected enterprise system.
Get a copy of the 68-slide Automation playbook
Automation in Oracle Cloud EPM isn’t just possible—it’s powerful. By using the right tools, organizations can reduce manual intervention, increase system reliability, and free up strategic time for finance and IT teams.
Download Chian Lin’s full Kscope25 presentation to access starter scripts, architecture tips, and tool comparisons.
Automation FAQs
What’s the difference between EPM Automate and REST APIs?
EPM Automate is a CLI-based tool for scripting tasks, while REST APIs provide deeper, programmatic access to the platform for developers.
Can I use Job Scheduler and EPM Automate together?
Absolutely. Many workflows start with a Job Scheduler and invoke EPM Automate scripts for extended functionality.
How secure is EPM Automate for administrative access?
It requires user credentials and follows Cloud EPM security rules. Ensure proper role assignments and audit your automation accounts regularly.