Understanding Data Import for Leads

You can import lead data into your system from an external comma-separated values (CSV) file. However, before you can import the data, you must create a database template to receive the data. You must also create an import map to identify the items from the spreadsheet that populate the various fields in the database template. A default template and map exist in the delivered database. You can use these as a model for creating other templates or maps.

You can upload a CSV spreadsheet (such as a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet), map the columns on the spreadsheet to fields in your database, and run an automated process to import the data from the spreadsheet into PeopleSoft Sales. You can import data from any comma-delimited spreadsheet, including spreadsheets from trade shows, or your own personal spreadsheets. When you import leads, the system stores the data in the Leads table and the Customer Data Model tables.

See Understanding the Data Import Application Engine Process (RBIMPORT).

PeopleSoft Sales is shipped with a predefined lead-import template and map for importing lead data. When you upload a spreadsheet and select the import template and import map, the system displays a list of the column headings and the closest matching database field name. The system also provides other field names from which to choose for each column. If the system's automatic mapping produces the correct results, then select the columns to use and run the import process.

If the results of the automatic mapping are not correct, use the fields to select a different field name and column mapping. Then, name and save the map to make it available from the specified template in the future.

You can create and save as many maps as you want. You can also create new templates. When you create a template, the system automatically creates a default import map for you.