# Generating Metadata

Before using a data source in appRules, the metadata must be generated.    Metadata is created when you add a new data source and select the connection associated or when you specifically 'Regenerate Metadata' on the toolbar.

<figure><img src="/files/5d1P5f4qMiiVly9P5hIH" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

To generate metadata, first configure the [connection properties](/apprules-r-documentation/platform/platform-features/system-settings/data-sources/connection-settings.md) and click the 'Create Metadata button' or Refresh metadata (when the datasource already exists) to continue.

A Datasource can have different connection associated for each environment (Test, Production...) but the Metadata is unique. If your environnements metadata models are different, define several datasources.

<figure><img src="/files/pIrzgaw4HT0SmKjiQ8gr" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

The environments are defined in the [RuntimeSettings](/apprules-r-documentation/platform/platform-features/system-settings/runtime-settings.md) section.


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