Introduction
Data migration is a vital aspect of integrating Salesforce with external systems. Salesforce provides robust tools like Data Loader and the Data Import Wizard to facilitate this process. These tools help in importing data from external databases and mapping relational data into corresponding related custom objects in Salesforce. This article will guide you through using these tools effectively for data import and relational mapping.
Understanding Data Loader and Data Import Wizard
Data Loader
Data Loader is a client application for the bulk import or export of data. It allows you to insert, update, delete, or export Salesforce records.
Data Import Wizard
The Data Import Wizard is a Salesforce tool accessible via the Salesforce UI, designed for less complex data import tasks. It supports standard and custom objects and provides a guided process for importing data.
Preparing for Data Import
Understanding the Data Structure
1. External System Data Structure:
- Identify the tables and columns in the external system database.
- Understand the relationships between these tables.
2. Salesforce Data Structure:
- Identify corresponding custom objects and fields in Salesforce.
- Define relationships between custom objects (e.g., Master-Detail, Lookup relationships).
Extracting Data from the External System
- Export data from the external system into CSV files. Ensure that relational data is maintained, e.g., by including foreign key columns.
Using Data Loader for Data Import
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Install Data Loader:
- Download and install Data Loader from Salesforce Setup.
2. Prepare CSV Files:
- Prepare CSV files for each object you need to import.
- Ensure that CSV files include necessary relational keys for maintaining relationships.
3. Insert Parent Records First:
- Import parent records (e.g., Accounts) first to ensure that child records can reference them.
4. Data Loader Settings:
- Open Data Loader and log in to your Salesforce org.
- Select the “Insert” operation for importing new records.
5. Mapping Fields:
- Map the fields from your CSV file to the Salesforce fields.
- Save field mappings for reuse.
6. Import Parent Records:
- Load the parent CSV file and initiate the import process.
7. Capture Parent Record IDs:
- After importing parent records, capture their Salesforce IDs to use them in child records.
8. Prepare Child Records:
- Update the child CSV files to include the newly imported parent record Salesforce IDs.
9. Import Child Records:
- Use Data Loader to import child records, ensuring relational data is correctly mapped using the parent IDs.
Example
For example, if you have Accounts (parents) and Contacts (children):
1. Import Accounts:
- Prepare an Accounts CSV file and import it using Data Loader.
- Capture the Account IDs generated by Salesforce.
2. Update Contacts CSV:
- Add a column in the Contacts CSV file for Account IDs.
- Populate this column with the corresponding Account IDs.
3. Import Contacts:
- Import the updated Contacts CSV file using Data Loader.
Using Data Import Wizard for Data Import
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Access Data Import Wizard:
- Log in to Salesforce and navigate to Setup.
- Search for “Data Import Wizard” and open it.
2. Select Data Type:
- Choose the type of data you want to import (Standard or Custom objects).
3. Upload CSV Files:
- Upload the CSV files for each object you want to import.
4. Mapping Fields:
- Map the fields from the CSV file to the Salesforce fields.
- The Data Import Wizard provides an intuitive interface for field mapping.
5. Import Parent Records First:
- Import parent records (e.g., Accounts) first, similar to the Data Loader process.
6. Capture Parent Record IDs:
- Capture the Salesforce IDs of imported parent records.
7. Update and Import Child Records:
- Update child CSV files to include parent Salesforce IDs.
- Import child records, ensuring relational data is correctly mapped.
Example
For instance, importing Accounts and Contacts:
1. Import Accounts:
- Prepare and import the Accounts CSV file.
- Capture Salesforce Account IDs.
2. Update Contacts CSV:
- Add Account IDs to the Contacts CSV file.
3. Import Contacts:
- Import the updated Contacts CSV file.
Mapping Relational Data
Maintaining Relationships
1. External IDs:
- Use external IDs to maintain relationships between records. External IDs allow you to reference records from the external system in Salesforce.
2. Parent-Child Relationships:
- Import parent records first to ensure that child records can reference them.
- Update child records with the corresponding parent Salesforce IDs.
3. Field Mapping:
- Ensure that the mapping of fields, especially relational fields, is accurate to maintain data integrity.
Testing and Validation
Test Imports
- Test the import process in a Salesforce sandbox environment.
- Validate that all data is imported correctly and relationships are maintained.
Error Handling
- Review error logs and resolve any issues before performing the final import into the production environment.
Conclusion
Importing data from external systems into Salesforce using Data Loader and Data Import Wizard is a straightforward process when properly planned and executed. By preparing your data, maintaining relational integrity, and utilizing Salesforce’s powerful import tools, you can ensure a smooth and accurate data migration. This approach not only simplifies the import process but also enhances data management within Salesforce, providing a seamless integration between external systems and your Salesforce org.
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