#salesforce
Learning Objectives
After completing this unit, you'll be able to:
Describe and compare the different options for importing data into Salesforce.
List the steps involved in preparing and importing data from a sample .csv file using the Data Import Wizard.
Introduction to Data Import
You can easily import external data into Salesforce. Supported data sources include any program that can save data in the comma delimited text format (.csv).
Salesforce offers two main methods for importing data.
Data Import Wizard-this tool, accessible through the Setup menu, lets you import data in common standard objects, such as contacts, leads, accounts, as well as data in custom objects. It can import up to 50,000 records at a time. It provides a simple interface to specify the configuration parameters, data sources, and the field mappings that map the field names in your import file with the field names in Salesforce.
Data Loader-this is a client application that can import up to five million records at a time, of any data type, either from files or a database connection. It can be operated either through the user interface or the command line. In the latter case, you need to specify data sources, field mappings, and other parameters via configuration files. This makes it possible to automate the import process, using API calls.
Note
Note
With both methods, the number of records you can import depends on your permissions, the type of data you’re importing, and the overall data storage limits for your organization. The type of objects you can import depends on your edition.
Use the Data Import Wizard When:
You need to load less than 50,000 records.
The objects you need to import are supported by the wizard.
You don’t need the import process to be automated.
Use Data Loader When:
You need to load 50,000 to five million records. If you need to load more than 5 million records, we recommend you work with a Salesforce partner or visit the AppExchange for a suitable partner product.
You need to load into an object that is not supported by the Data Import Wizard.
You want to schedule regular data loads, such as nightly imports.