Best Practices for Importing Data with CSV Files

CSV imports are a very powerful tool. Because the imported data replaces existing data, use caution before you proceed.

To learn more, see the following topics:

• Creating CSV Import Files describes the file format, import hierarchy, and naming conventions. It also links to individual supported file type topics.
• Importing Data explains how to use the Import Wizard, describes types of import data, and required actions for each.

Keep these guidelines in mind when importing data with CSV files:

• The data you include in a CSV file should conform to the same constraints enforced throughout the Determination user interface.
• Avoid using special characters if your data does not require them (for example, <, >, &, ", ').
• Blank spaces at the end of lines, as well as blank rows, cause all or part of an import to fail.
• Import data is case-sensitive.
• Overlapping records within the same file are not validated (for example, dates and product mappings).
• Dates must be in the MM/DD/YYYY format (for example, 11/30/08 is interpreted as 11/30/0008).
• Booleans must be Y or N. If you enter Yes or No, the values default to N (worst case is Yes = N).
• In updated records, if you do not include data in optional columns or fields, the default value is NULL .
• Each import type has its own column definitions, including required columns, optional columns, and prerequisites.

Checking the Log File for Import Errors

To search and view log data, use the menu system to navigate to System > About > Log Search page.

Using Imports to Add or Modify Data

Typically, simplified CSV imports are used to add new data to ONESOURCE Indirect Tax Determination and the examples shown in each simplified CSV description describe how to do so. You can also use imports to modify data that already exists, but modifying only the columns with data changes. Each import type imposes its own update restrictions as described in the individual CSV file format topics.