Data Import/Export
Overview
The Data Import/Export module allows you to move records seamlessly into and out of ianaiERP via CSV or Excel files.
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Export: Download system data for local backups, external data analysis, or to create formatting templates.
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Import: Add or update records in bulk by uploading structured data files (Note: This feature is currently marked as Beta in the user interface).
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Supported Entities: Common master files and transactions, including Items, Vendors, Work Orders, Purchase Orders, Customers, and more.
Where to Access
Click your User Avatar (top-right corner) ▸ Select Data Import/Export ▸ Toggle between the EXPORT and IMPORT tabs at the top of the page..
Key Attributes
Shared Settings
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Entity: The specific record type you want to handle (e.g., ITEM, ITEM CATEGORY, ITEM BUNDLE, LOT, WORK ORDER, VENDOR, PURCHASE ORDER, CUSTOMER, ESTIMATE).
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Company: The target business entity (essential if your system runs a multi-company setup).
Export Tab Controls
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Columns:An optional dropdown picker to select specific data fields. Leave this blank to automatically include all available columns.
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File Type: Choose between exporting as a CSV or Excel file.
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From Date / To Date: Optional filters to isolate records from a specific timeframe.
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Export: Generates and downloads your file instantly.
Import Tab Controls
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Upload Area (Drag & Drop): Secure drop zone for your data file (supports file sizes up to ≤ 10 MB).
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Import Data: Launches system validations and begins loading data into your selected Entity and Company.
Key Functions
How to Export Records
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Navigate to Avatar ▸ Data Import/Export ▸ EXPORT.
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Choose your target Entity (e.g., ITEM or WORK ORDER).
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(Optional) Select a specific Company, pick custom Columns, or narrow down your data using From/To Dates.
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Select your preferred File Type (CSV or Excel).
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Click Export to save the file to your device.
💡 Quick Tip: Exporting a blank or small sample file first is the best way to copy the exact column headers required for clean system imports later.
How to Import Records
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Navigate to Avatar ▸ Data Import/Export ▸ IMPORT.
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Select the correct Entity and Company matching your file.
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Prepare your file: Ensure your spreadsheet uses exactly one row per record and that your column headers perfectly match an official ianaiERP export file. Keep all date/number formats consistent.
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Drag and drop your file into the upload area, or click to browse your computer.
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Click Import Data to initiate file validation.
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Review any system validation error messages, adjust your spreadsheet rows if necessary, and re-upload.
Best Practices
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Build Templates First: Always run a quick, raw data export of an entity before attempting to import new rows. This ensures your column names match the database perfectly.
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Manage File Sizes: Keep your uploads small and focused. If you have thousands of records, split your master lists into smaller batches by date range or product category.
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Multi-Company Auditing: Double-check the selected Company dropdown prior to hitting import to prevent records from accidentally loading into the wrong corporate entity.
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Pre-align System References: Ensure that any Units of Measure (UOM), Locations, Tax Codes, and Account Names used in your spreadsheet match the names already created in ianaiERP exactly to prevent reference mismatches.