locked
Updating existing record with new field RRS feed

  • Question

  • I'm trying to update my existing accounts with a new field but when I attempt to re-import I get an error message that the data cannot be mapped. Basically when I did my initial import from the old database we used the client type was a text field. There are only 3 options, current client type 1, current client type 2, or potential client. I want to change that field to be a drop down menu with only those three options instead of a open text field. I read that I could create a new field export the data update that new field then delete the old one.

    I created a new custom view with only the account name, text field, new drop down field. I exported with the re-import option and just drug over the old data to the new field but when I attempt to import I don't get a option to map the old data to the drop down options. Is there a way to accomplish what I am trying to do?

    Thanks for any help.

    - Trevor
    Wednesday, October 10, 2012 5:39 PM

Answers

  • I think with your export file, sort on your text field and then on your new picklist field, actually click on the field and select one of the options. Once selected, you can copy the value from the picklist field, highlight the records you wish to update with this value, and then paste the new value into all the cells. Repeat for each value in the text field column. Then when you go to import, the value will get mapped up to the correct picklist value. 

    Jason Lattimer

    Wednesday, October 10, 2012 5:50 PM
    Moderator

All replies

  • I think with your export file, sort on your text field and then on your new picklist field, actually click on the field and select one of the options. Once selected, you can copy the value from the picklist field, highlight the records you wish to update with this value, and then paste the new value into all the cells. Repeat for each value in the text field column. Then when you go to import, the value will get mapped up to the correct picklist value. 

    Jason Lattimer

    Wednesday, October 10, 2012 5:50 PM
    Moderator
  • Mr. Lattimer, you sir are a scholar. You always have an answer to my questions. Thank you very much for your help it is greatly appreciated.

    - Trevor

    Wednesday, October 10, 2012 6:15 PM