By default, when you rename a column or parameter in a source map or information object, the name change is propagated to all dependent information objects as long as the column name in the dependent information object is not modified. Column names that appear in expressions, including computed column and filter expressions, are also updated. The IO Design perspective does not check for column name duplication in a dependent information object. When you compile the information object, column name duplication is reported as an error.

By default, when you delete a column or parameter in a source map or information object, the delete action is not propagated to any dependent information objects. If you override this behavior, the action is propagated to any dependent information objects as long as the column name in the dependent information object is not modified. BIRT Designer Professional deletes any filters that exist for a deleted column, while computed columns and filter expressions containing the column name remain unchanged.

To override the default behavior, choose Window➛Preferences➛Actuate BIRT
➛Information Objects and make the necessary selections. Figure 2‑4 shows the default settings for column and parameter renaming and deletion.