Issues with Using Cyclic Paths in Segment Attributes

When you choose a DMO more than one time while selecting a related attribute, you create a cyclic path. Cyclic paths are relationships that use cyclic behavior (a→b→a). Cyclic paths degrade segment performance and can lead to count or publish failures. To avoid these issues, Data 360 prevents you from creating cyclic paths through Segment Builder by default.

Consider this example cyclic path where Email Engagement is used twice.

Here’s another example where the “Segment On” entity is used in related attributes. The path leads from Account (Segment On Entity) to Case, and then back to Account.

Note Data 360 retains previously created cyclic paths in your segments.

Note If specific situations require you to use a cyclic path, contact Support to enable cyclic paths in your org.