faq: why am I getting an import error?

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Import Errors
• 1. Remove Periods from the File Name 
• 2. Eliminate Extra Tabs
• 3. Delete Helper Rows
• 4. Remove Formatting
• 5. Check for Hidden Characters 
• 6. Save as CSV
• 7. Verify Mandatory Fields  

Import Errors

Encountering an error while importing via Excel? Here’s how to resolve common issues: 

1. Remove Periods from the File Name 

Periods in the Excel file name can cause errors. Replace them with dashes or another symbol.
Example: Change Member Import 8.5.2025 to Member Import 8-5-32025.

2. Eliminate Extra Tabs

Ensure your Excel file contains only one tab. Additional tabs can disrupt the import process.

3. Delete Helper Rows

When you created your import template, you may have included additional information in your Excel sheet by checking these two boxes (a):

These appear on your Excel sheet as Rows 2 and 3 (b) and provide additional field guidance, however, your sheet will be rejected if they are not deleted prior to import.

4. Remove Formatting

Clear any special formatting in your Excel sheet to avoid compatibility issues by selecting your sheet and clicking "Clear Formats".

5. Check for Hidden Characters 

Data exported from platforms like SurveyMonkey or Google Forms may include hidden characters.

Quick Tip: Highlight your entire document and apply a filter. If you see columns with filters but no visible data, hidden characters are present. Delete these columns to resolve the issue.

6. Save as CSV

If import issues persist after removing formatting, save your file as a CSV and then back to an Excel. This can clear hidden formatting.

7. Verify Required Fields

If your Impact Suite requires certain fields during reporter enrollment, bulk imports will fail unless this information is included.

Missing required fields will trigger an error message like this:

Fields marked in red with an asterisk (*) are mandatory. To adjust these settings, follow the guide on making fields required for the reporter enrollment process.