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

Start here

New to iImport? Begin with these steps:

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.