Specifying Unique and Shared Data

If a data value is unique to a single test description
You should place it in the plan at the same level as the test description, using the testdata statement. You can add the testdata statement using the Testplan Detail dialog box or type the testdata statement directly into the test plan.
If data is common to several tests
You can factor out the data that is common to a group of tests and define it at a level in the test plan where it can be shared by the group. To do this, you define symbols and assign them values. Using symbols results in less redundant data, and therefore, less maintenance.