By using native data import feature in MS CRM 4.0, we have the ability to update the existing data apart from creating new records. This is called Data Enrichment which is the new feature brought up in MSCRM 4.0. This can be done by exporting your data into an Excel Sheet. In general, when we export the data to a static excel sheet, you find the excel sheet columns start from B instead of A. This column A is in hidden state which holds the GUID of existing record.
If you are so curious, you can unhide the column A to see the GUID. Please follow the steps in this link to unhide the excel columns.
Make your changes to the data in the same excel sheet and save it as a .CSV file. Now, re-import the data using standard data import wizard. This time when you upload the file, you will be pointed to a new checkbox option 'Enrich data by updating existing records rather than creating new records'. This option is used to update the changes you made for the existing records instead of creating new ones.
If you are so curious, you can unhide the column A to see the GUID. Please follow the steps in this link to unhide the excel columns.
Make your changes to the data in the same excel sheet and save it as a .CSV file. Now, re-import the data using standard data import wizard. This time when you upload the file, you will be pointed to a new checkbox option 'Enrich data by updating existing records rather than creating new records'. This option is used to update the changes you made for the existing records instead of creating new ones.
Will it update look up fields as well?
ReplyDeleteI tried a lookup field import and it is failing...im searching the net for an answer but no luck so far
ReplyDeleteIt depends on the lookup. You need to enter exactly what you want it to look up.
ReplyDeleteAlso, some entries have hidden values, as in it displays one thing but the actual value of that lookup is different.
For example, we categories our work into categories 1- open, 2- keen to progress, 3- struggling, Leave and No, but the actual values are: 5, 6, 7, 1, 2 respectively, so make sure you enter the actual value into the Excel sheet.
Is there a rollup update that needs to be applied before this functionality will work?
ReplyDelete