iImport Overview

iImport allows you to bring data into iMIS using a spreadsheet. You can use iImport to add new records, update existing records, or do both at the same time.

At a high level, iImport works like this: Spreadsheet > Matching > Action

• Spreadsheet – The source data (Excel or CSV file)
• Matching – How iDMS identifies whether a record already exists in iMIS
• Action – What happens to the data (insert new records or update existing ones)

For example, if a matching record is found, iImport updates it. If no match is found, a new record is created.

iImport is commonly used for one-time imports, bulk updates, and loading data from external systems. You can also save your configurations as templates and automate jobs using iSchedule.

Note: If you are new to iDMS, start with Getting Started in iDMS before using iImport.

Knowing when to use iImport

• Import data from spreadsheets or external systems
• Add new contacts, activities, or other records
• Update large amounts of data at once
• Load data during implementations or migrations

Common use cases

• Conducting an initial data load or conversion into iMIS
• Importing spreadsheets from external systems
• Updating contact information (name, address, demographics)
• Importing event activities or attendance data
• Updating or populating panel source data

Note: All custom panel sources must be specifically configured to grant iDMS proper access. See Granting iDMS access to IQA queries and panel sources.

Start here

New to iImport? Begin with these steps:

• Running your first import – Learn how to upload a file and execute a task
• Mapping the data – Match spreadsheet columns to iMIS fields
• Set matching rules – Control how records are identified and updated

Key concepts

Understanding these concepts will help you use iImport effectively:

• Actions – Define whether data is inserted, updated, or both
• Mapping – Control how spreadsheet data is applied to iMIS fields
• Matching – Determine how iDMS identifies existing records
• Templates – Save configurations for reuse
• Task Options – Configure how jobs behave

Automating imports

You can combine iImport with iSchedule to run jobs automatically at specific times or on a recurring basis. This is useful for processing files overnight or maintaining data on a regular schedule.