Finder File Layouts

File layouts define the file structure of a finder file "Finder file is another term for acquisition file. This is a list of rented or exchanged names that cannot be added to the database because they are not yet owned by the organization. These lists are usually stored in a separate table or database for retrieval one name at a time as donations from those names are processed. ". Most vendors provide finder files in a specified format that typically does not change. When you use multiple finder files from the same vendor, a file layout helps eliminate the need to map the finder file fields each time you rent a new finder file. You can define a file layout once and use it each time you import a finder file from the vendor.

Note: A file layout is associated with a particular record source. If you save a file layout for one source and import a finder file into another source, the previously saved file layout will not be available for the new import.

To add a new file layout, a valid *.csv file is required. The first row of the file must contain header fields. After you select the file, the header fields appear in the Field Name column, where you can map to pre-defined program fields or fields you define yourself.

Warning: You must map the Finder Number and the Source Code fields.

During the mapping process, the program attempts to auto-map fields. The program fields are used throughout the program when you create new marketing efforts or query on finder file information. The available fields are:

• Not Mapped

• Salutation

• Title

• First Name

• Middle Name

• Last name

• Suffix

• Organization Name

• Name Line 1

• Name Line 2

• Name Line 3

• Address Line 1

• Address Line 2

• Address Line 3

• City

• State

• Zip code

• Country

On the File Layouts tab of the Finder Files page, you can view a list of saved file layouts. Select the name of the layout to open a page where you can view a list of all imported finder files that use the layout.