Importing Custom Fields via CSV - Genius CE & Enterprise

 Importing custom fields via CSV file

Use case: Creating required custom fields and then using a CSV file to automatically import instead of manually entering data. This walkthrough is helpful when mandatory/required custom fields are in place and the Admin is importing data via CSV.

First, custom fields must be created via Administration-> System Setup-> Custom Fields in the left side menu. First select the object type, for this example I am using LEARNER. From here, it's possible to add a new custom field or edit existing ones. An important note before moving on- by setting the required field to Yes, this becomes a mandatory field when setting up a learner via CSV or manual input. 

Once these fields are created, it is now possible to import using a CSV similar to the one shown below. Again, it is critical to remember that in order for this to be successful, all required fields have to be addressed. In this example, since the Race custom field was previously created as required in our previous step, this field must be filled in for this CSV to work. CSVs are imported by going to Administration->Operations->Import CSV in the left side menu, choosing an appropriate file, and selecting Upload.

As Genius CE or Enterprise import custom fields, what was defined for the field is what is followed. If the custom field is required, it is validated on the import process. If a CSV is imported and does not include the required custom fields previously created, the entire job will fail.