File Upload
In addition to all of the standard User profile fields such as first name, last name etc. there are 30 Custom Fields where custom data can be stored - these fields can also be renamed.
Custom Fields can also be used to store arrays of data which can be useful for holding shopping basket contents, flight itineraries etc. array elements can then be referenced within Email Templates using the Template Language.
File imports expect data in CSV format. Field maps enable you to select the field delimiter and you can also use the preview feature when import to map columns to fields online.
When exporting data from your chosen application or database you'll need to ensure it is using a valid CSV (Comma Separated Values) format.
To improve the performance when uploading and to cut down on waiting time it's recommended that large files are zipped.
Preview File Contents
- From the "Lists" tab, click on the List you wish to import Users into.
- The "Import Users" panel displays options to control the import.
- Use the "Preference Setting" dropdown to select whether you want to opt-in Users or opt-out.
- Select the "Preview file and map columns to fields" option.
- The import preview option displays the first 10 rows of data to be imported so you can quickly match columns to the fields available in your Lists.
- Map columns to any of the available User Profile and Custom Fields.
- Rename Custom Fields and make it easier to remember what data is being stored in each field.
- Choose to ignore any columns where you don't want to import the data.
- To import your file, either drag the file onto the drop target area, or click to select the file from your computer.
- Click "Save Changes" when ready to upload the file.
Using Field Maps
- From the "Lists" tab, click on the List you wish to import Users into.
- The "Actions" panel displays options to control the import.
- Use the "Preference Setting" dropdown to select whether you want to opt-in Users or opt-out.
- Select the Field Map that matches the file being uploaded.
- To import your file, either drag the file onto the drop target area, or click to select the file from your computer.
- Click "Save Changes" when ready to upload the file.
Common Questions
What file types can be imported?
For more detailed information on creating CSV files click here.
The drag and drop file uploader does not work with my browser
You'll need to use IE9+, Firefox, Chrome or Safari. Click here to to read more about supported web browsers.
What Field Map should I use?
If you don't know what columns are in your file or what order they are in then use the "Preview" feature when importing.
When import files are previewed can can choose to save the Field Map to use again later to save you time.
Can opt-outs be imported?
Yes, use the "Preference Setting" dropdown and set the action to 'Opt-out / unsubscribe'.
How are records matched?
The system validates email address format and deduplicates multiple occurrences of the same email address. The details of each import are recorded in separate logs to provide a more detailed explanation of the actions taken whilst processing the data file.
For opt-in imports, any Users that don't already exist within the application will be created. When opting out Users via import any Users that don't already belong to the List will become associated but opted-out immediately.