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Data import

Data management1/5/2026Basic Level

Data import is the process of bringing data from an external source into a target system. In e-commerce, this often involves populating a PIM with product information from various sources like ERPs or supplier feeds.

What is Data import? (Definition)

Data import is the process of moving information from an outside source into a software system or database. It helps you fill a platform with the details it needs to function. This allows you to manage and use data that was originally stored in a different location. Common sources include spreadsheets, CSV files, and XML files. You can also import data directly from other business tools like an ERP or CRM. WISEPIM uses data imports to collect product information from various suppliers into one central location.

Why Data import is Important for E-commerce

Data import is a process that moves product information from external sources into an e-commerce platform. It helps online stores manage large catalogs without manual typing. Most businesses get their data from suppliers or internal systems like an ERP. Typing this information by hand is slow and leads to many mistakes. Automated data import keeps product lists accurate even when a store has thousands of items. This helps businesses launch new products faster and keep prices up to date.

Examples of Data import

  • 1A PIM system pulls new product SKUs and details like names and prices from an ERP.
  • 2A store updates its stock levels and prices daily using a CSV file from a supplier.
  • 3A business moves its entire product catalog from an old e-commerce platform to a new PIM.
  • 4A team adds new marketing descriptions, images, and videos provided by a content agency.
  • 5A user imports product variations like sizes and colors from a spreadsheet into the system.

How WISEPIM Helps

  • Automated connections: WISEPIM connects to your ERP, CRM, and supplier portals. Automate and schedule data imports to save time.
  • Simple data mapping: Match incoming data fields to your PIM attributes easily. This works for any file format and reduces manual work.
  • Data quality checks: Set up rules to check data as it enters the system. This ensures your product information is accurate and consistent.
  • Change tracking: The system logs every import so you can track changes. You can see past versions and undo updates easily.
  • Fast processing: The platform processes large amounts of product data quickly. It stays reliable even as your catalog grows.

Common Mistakes with Data import

  • Skipping data validation before you start the import. This leads to broken records and mismatched information across your different systems.
  • Forgetting to map data fields correctly. This causes information to end up in the wrong place or disappear entirely during the transfer.
  • Overwriting important existing data without saving a backup first. You must understand how the new import will change your current records.
  • Failing to match formats or units from different sources. If you do not standardize this data, you will face constant quality issues in your catalog.
  • Using manual imports for tasks you do every day. This process is slow and makes it very easy for people to make small but costly mistakes.

Tips for Data import

  • Set strict rules to check all incoming data. This prevents incorrect or messy information from entering your system.
  • Create clear guides for mapping your data. Show how fields from your source file match the attributes in your PIM.
  • Use a test environment to check new data imports. This helps you catch mistakes before they affect your live store.
  • Automate regular imports using scheduling tools. This reduces manual work and keeps your product information consistent.
  • Set up alerts for import errors. This allows you to find and fix issues immediately during the data transfer.

Trends Surrounding Data import

  • AI-powered data validation and cleansing tools automatically detect anomalies, suggest corrections, and standardize incoming data.
  • Increased adoption of automated data orchestration platforms for seamless, scheduled, and triggered data imports from various sources.
  • Real-time data synchronization becomes standard, especially for headless commerce architectures, minimizing latency between data sources and storefronts.
  • Enhanced data governance frameworks specifically for import processes, ensuring compliance and maintaining a clear audit trail of data origin and transformations.
  • Focus on 'sustainable data' practices, optimizing import processes to reduce data redundancy and storage, contributing to lower energy consumption.

Tools for Data import

  • WISEPIM: Centralizes product data, streamlines complex imports from various suppliers and ERPs, and ensures data quality across all sales channels.
  • Akeneo PIM: Offers advanced data import capabilities for managing diverse product information, attributes, and digital assets effectively.
  • Salsify: A Product Experience Management (PXM) platform that provides robust tools for importing, enriching, and syndicating product content.
  • Shopify: Provides built-in CSV import functionalities for products, customers, and orders, suitable for direct e-commerce management.
  • Magento (Adobe Commerce): Features powerful and flexible data import/export tools for extensive product catalogs, customer data, and order information.

Related Terms

pimdata qualitydata validationproduct feeddata ingestiondata cleansingpim connectordata feed

Also Known As

Data ingestionData uploadData migrationData synchronization (one-way)