Before you begin
Be sure to check out our article covering Importing Subject Data + Images to learn the basics of importing subject data and images. The following information will cover the specific options needed to Merge and/or Override existing Subject Data during the import process.
Where do I get started?
In a job, click on Tools > Import, then Subject Data & Images:
Merge vs. Override
After you've specified the Import Type and Upload File Configuration, you have the option to specify if you'd like to merge the data with existing data in the Job and, if needed, override any existing subject data.
The important thing to keep in mind with importing Subject Data is:
Select Merge subject data if there is existing data in the Job you're importing to.
Select Override data for existing subjects during merge if there is existing data in the Job you're importing to and would like to update their information with what's in the data file.
What are Unique Fields?
The second page of the Import Tool is the Match Columns to Subject Data section. Here is where you'll need to specify a unique field for Blueprint to compare the data in the upload file against existing subject data.
This is field is useful for preventing Blueprint from accidentally creating duplicate subjects during the import process. During the import, Blueprint will skip creating a subject if an exact match is found in the unique fields for both the upload file and existing subject data.
PRO TIP: Most studios will use either the Subject's Online Code or Student ID as a guaranteed unique field per subject.
If Override data for existing subjects during merge is selected, Blueprint will still skip creating a subject if an exact match is found and update any mapped fields as needed.
Something didn't go right?
Try reverting the Job and attempting the import again if, after the initial import the Subject Data & Images appears wrong. Often times the issue stems from an incorrect unique field being selected or not checking the boxes to merge or override subject data.