The Import Tool allows you to bring new data into your platform, update existing records, and mass-tag groups of supporters. This feature is especially useful for managing supporter data, donations, and campaign associations at scale.
What Are Imports?
Imports are data uploads into the system that let you:
- Create new records (e.g., donors, payments, pledges)
- Modify or update existing records
- Tag a group of existing records for segmentation
All import activity is tracked in the Imports table under the Data tab.
Navigating the Imports Table
After navigating to Data > Imports, you’ll see a table listing past imports. Each row contains:
- ID: Unique identifier for the import
- File name
- Model: The record type (e.g., Individual, Pledge, Campaign)
- Action: Whether the import was a create (insert) or update
- Status: Pending, Completed, or Failed
- Successes & Errors: Counts for each
- Created At: Timestamp of the import
You can click into any row to view full import details, configuration, and actions.
Import Actions
Each import record supports the following actions from the Actions dropdown:
- Download Original File: Retrieve the CSV used for import
- Download Errors: See which rows failed and why
- Download Results: View what was successfully processed
- Tag Records: Apply a tag to all successfully imported records
Creating a New Import
Click the "+" icon to start a new import. You’ll choose between three tabs:
- Create: For new records (e.g., supporters, payments)
- Update: For modifying existing records
- Tag: For grouping existing records by tag
1. Create Tab: Add New Records
Supported record types include:
- Companies
- Individuals
- Campaigns
- Donations & Payments
- Recurring Plans
- Designations
- Pledges
- Communication List Consents
CSV Requirements
- Ensure required fields (like email, name, or ID) are present.
- Include fields like Do Not Contact and Is Marketing Contact with values:
- 0 = false (contact allowed)
- 1 = true (do not contact)
- 0 = false (contact allowed)
Field Mapping
Once your file is uploaded, the platform will:
- Display the column headers and sample values
- Prompt you to map each column to a system field (e.g., Name → Name, Email → Email)
Map only what’s necessary—fields left unmapped will be skipped unless required.
2. Update Tab: Modify Existing Records
- Select the record type (e.g., Individual)
- Upload a file with unique identifiers (usually email or WeGive ID)
- Map only the fields you wish to update
- Use the checkbox to overwrite existing values with the new ones
Common use cases:
- Updating supporter phone numbers
- Correcting typos in names or emails
3. Tag Tab: Tag Records in Bulk
- Choose to tag Individuals or Companies
- Upload a file with identifiers (e.g., WeGive ID or Email)
- Use the Actions dropdown to apply a tag to all matched records
Note: This tool works best when the records already exist in the system.
Common Troubleshooting Tips
- Failed Import? Always download the Errors file. Look for:
- Missing required fields (e.g., Do Not Contact, Is Marketing Contact)
- Incorrect data formats (e.g., Dates must be in YYYY-MM-DD format)
- Missing required fields (e.g., Do Not Contact, Is Marketing Contact)
- Communication List Consents:
- Requires Donor ID and Communication List ID
- Subscribe status: 1 = subscribed, 0 = unsubscribed
- Requires Donor ID and Communication List ID
- Recurring Plans & Payments:
- Requires proper campaign/designation references and correctly formatted start dates
- Requires proper campaign/designation references and correctly formatted start dates
Best Practices
- Always preview your CSV before importing.
- Start with a test file (e.g., 1–2 records) to ensure mappings are correct.
- Use filters in the Imports table to view by model (e.g., Campaign, Payment), status (Completed, Failed), or action type (Insert, Update).
- Use tagging post-import for quick segmentation.