How do I import multiple values into a custom data field

[pkeogan]

I would like to import multiple values into a custom data field  (checkbox list).  I've tried using the pipe delimiter |, but that isn't working for me.  Does CiviCRM support this type of import?  I have created an example in the Demo site.  I'm trying to import into the "Import Test" data group into the field "AA".  I've attached the import file. 

The import utility completes successfully, but there isn't anything in the data field.

I have successsfully done this through the database, but it would be a lot faster to do it through the import.

[petednz]

My advice is always to work backwards. Enter some data at the backend in to your fields/options - then export it - then you see what the database is expecting from the import - hope that helps.

[pkeogan]

Thanks, that worked it was just a , 

Now I feel stupid....

[mjawadsheikh]

Can you please tell me the whole procedure to do this?? I want to add the names of cities of my country to the city drop down menu. As the cities are 100+, so entering the field one by one is not a practical thing. So, how can I import the options as you have described here?

[petednz]

HI - I think you will need to search on how to import options to a value - this thread is about importing the data to a field that already has the options created - an sql import is the usual way to go - one route is to create a couple of options - look in the db - export a couple of rows from the table, then construct the extras based on that model and do the import. Good luck (i know this has been described in more detail somewhere on the forum a couple of years back)

[CiviTeacher.com]

I have found that the CONCATENATE function is useful if the data is given to you spread across multiple columns. 

   For the Multi-Select Fields above, Excel or OpenOffice CONCATENATE() function can be useful, and IF() statements can be used to make the commas between fields conditional like so: CONCATENATE(S2,T2,U2,V2,W2) where columns T and V are conditional commas with IF(NOT(ISBLANK(U2)),",","")

This way, a comma is only added between values if the values actually exist.