Data is generated by the ODS (operational data stores), like ERP’s, CRM or business specific applications. The financial related data in these systems needs to be sorted out and aggregated and related across all companies of the group.
Due to the heteroclicity of the ODS systems, the only way to do this is to define a standard interface, a common way of presenting data to the corporate information system. This common interface is either er import files (flat files with very simple structure (csv like)), or forms to enable the user to input his data. This process may also be automated with an ETL that extracts data from the ODS, and transforms it to the default Enterprise Reporting import file format.
The import files then need to be Loaded in the system. This is handled by either the web extension, the desktop client, or the import server.

Enterprise Reporting web extension allows subsidiaries to enter data in one central location, trough the published forms in the Web, or via import files. Import files are easy to generate from flat file format, which are from various ERP's.