iImport

iImport enables staff to import and update iMIS data using a spreadsheet. Staff can import, update, or perform both actions simultaneously. For example, if a match is not found, it will import the new record; if a match is found, the record will be updated with the relevant information from the spreadsheet.

Templates can be created and saved for easy reuse in future imports or updates. Additionally, in conjunction with iSchedule, these jobs can be scheduled to run during off-hours or on a recurring basis.

Note: If you are a new user, review Getting Started in iDMS first.

Use Cases

There are many possible uses for iImport. Common real-world use cases include:

Conducting an initial data load or conversion into iMIS.
Importing a spreadsheet from an external system.
Quickly updating name, address, or demographic changes made by staff or volunteers.
Importing activities from external events into iMIS.
Updating newly created or existing Panel Sources.

Uploading a File

Utilizing iImport begins by uploading the spreadsheet that will be used to insert and/or update data. Do the following to upload a new file:

From iImport, click New.

Upload the file to import. Click to browse or drag-and-drop the file.

After uploading the file, there are 3 options:
1. Check the First Row Has Column Names option if the spreadsheet has headers. If the spreadsheet contains headers, this option is enabled after upload.
2. Select a different sheet in the spreadsheet.
3. See the available columns in the currently selected sheet.
Select an Action.

Important Notes

iDMS iImport currently supports a maximum of 250,000 records per import file; however, we recommend limiting imports to no more than 10,000 records per job.
International Users: Dates must be formatted using the standard international notation: YYYY-MM-DD. When imported, iMIS will convert dates to the format configured in the settings. See Changing the iMIS date format for additional information.
Only Excel files (.xlsx) are supported for use with iImport.