You can create an import process to generate a batch for adding or updating information from a file created in another application. For example, during an event, you may not have access to the program. Instead, you enter data in a word processing or spreadsheet program such as Microsoft Excel. After you save your spreadsheet as a delimited or fixed-width file in the outside application, you can import the information into your database. You can add an import process from the Import page of Administration or from within Batch Entry.
Tip: You can also create recurring import processes for imports used multiple times with different import files. For example, an import process can pull files with similar names repeatedly from the same location.
Note: Before you can create import processes, the system administrator must configure at least one import source for import processes. For information about import sources, see Configure Import Sources.
To add an import process, select Add on the action bar of the Import page. The Select a batch template screen appears where you can select a batch template to use as the basis for your new import process.
Note: When a batch template you want to use does not display, consult your batch processing manager. For example, the batch template may not display because it is not configured to enable batch processing with imports.
After you select a batch template, click OK.
The Add import process screen displays and includes a series of tabs designed to walk you through the process of adding an import process.
On the Configure import file tab, enter the import process name and description, select a batch owner, and specify the import type and source.
On the Map fields tab, you map import fields to batch template fields manually or select to use an import file mapping template.
On the Set Options tab, specify options for import workflow, constituent matching, date formats, fields, and constituent updates.
From any of the tabs, use Previous and Next to move between the tabs, or click the links at the top of the screen.
Tip: A blue circle indicates the tabyou are currently using. When required information is missing, a yellow warning appears.