Dynamics CRM 2011: How to create a Data Map using the Download Template for Import XML file

In this post I intend to cover how to create a Data Map using the Download Template for Import XML file

I had a requirement where I needed to create my own custom data map, but I did not want to do this from scratch.  Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 differs from CRM 4.0 when it comes to creating data maps.  In CRM 4.0 I could do this using a wizard; however this is not available in CRM 2011.

Begin by using the “Download Template for Import” option in CRM from the entity you require a data map for.  This creates an xml file with the data map already included.

Open the file in Excel and fill in any one column with data.

Save As a CSV file

The most import step here is to RENAME the file from Lead to anything other name.  Here I have used a 1Lead1.csv

Select the “Import  Data” option in CRM and upload the newly saved CSV File

Select Next on the Review File Upload summary window

Select Default (Automatic Mapping) option

Select your Entity name from the drop down

Select Next (If any fields are not automatically mapped, they will need to be done on this window.  Select “Show Unmapped” to find which fields these are)

Select next on the review window

The following is where we get the option to create a Data Map.  Enter a Data Map Name.

 

Now in the Data Management areas in Settings we will be able to see the custom Data Map.

This can be done for, and not limited to, the following entities; leads, contacts, accounts, opportunities, address, case, e-mail, note and quote