Best Practices for ImportOmatic Profile Setup in Raiser’s Edge (Part 1)

When organizations are making the leap to quick and easy data imports for Raiser’s Edge™, many opt to initially test their newly created ImportOmatic profiles in their sample database. After testing and checking, the profiles are then transferred to their live database. While the actual export and import of the ImportOmatic profiles is quite easy, there are a few things that a user should keep in mind during the transfer process.

Below are a few tips to make sure that the transfer process goes smoothly.

1. Duplicate Criteria used in the original profile must be recreated in the live database prior to importing the profile.
2. All Data Dictionaries used in the sample profile must be recreated in the live database prior to importing the profile.
3. Make sure that the default values used for contact types in the sample profile and any default sets used in the original profile exist in the live database prior to importing the profile.
4. If the original profile uses Enhanced Package/Appeal Processing, then the user must check to make sure that the Appeals in the live database have the appropriate default Campaigns and Funds.
5. Users should check to make sure that all table values used in the sample profile exist in the live database.
6. If using Campaigns, Funds, and Appeals as static virtual fields; check to make sure that the live database has the same Campaigns, Funds, and Appeals.
7. Make sure that ImportOmatic has at least one existing profile before attempting to import a profile from XML. At least one profile must exist before a user is able to import a profile.

As you can see, a smooth transition to your live database is easily achievable by following the steps above. But, if you’d rather skip the transfer process altogether, look out for my upcoming blog that debunks the commonly perceived risks surrounding creating ImportOmatic profiles in your live database. It’s true, creating ImportOmatic profiles in your live database doesn’t have to be risky business. Stay tuned!