Data Conversion Overview

Overview

The GoldFinch Conversion app is a powerful tool for importing large volumes of data into GoldFinch using Import Templates. It is primarily used during system implementation to migrate data from your legacy system, but it can also be used after go-live to import new records or update existing data.

The Conversion app supports importing many types of master and transactional data, helping reduce manual data entry and improve implementation efficiency.

Common Uses

Initial Implementation

During implementation, the GoldFinch Conversion app is commonly used to import master data and beginning balances into the system.

Depending on the type and volume of data, you may choose to:

Enter records manually.
Import records using the Conversion app.
Use a combination of both methods.

Your GoldFinch Implementation Specialist can help determine the most efficient approach for each data set.

Ongoing Data Imports

After your system goes live, the Conversion app can continue to be used to:

Import new customers or vendors
Add new inventory items
Update price lists
Import beginning balances for new companies
Load other business data in bulk

Before Using the Conversion App

Before importing data, consider the following:

Volume of Data

Large datasets are generally better suited for importing, while smaller datasets may be quicker to enter manually.

Data Quality

Verify that your source data is complete, accurate, and free of duplicates before importing. Correcting data after it has been imported is often more time-consuming than cleaning it beforehand.

Time

Data conversion includes more than simply importing records. Time should be allocated for:

Preparing the data
Validating the data
Testing the import
Reviewing the results
Correcting any errors

Staff Resources

Ensure that the people performing the import understand both the source data and the GoldFinch data structure.

Budget

Large or complex data conversions may require assistance from your GoldFinch Implementation Specialist. Consider the associated consulting time when planning your implementation.

Best Practices

Work with Your Implementation Specialist

Consult your GoldFinch Implementation Specialist before importing data, especially during your initial implementation. They can help ensure that data is imported in the correct sequence and that all prerequisites have been completed.

Test in a Sandbox

Always perform data conversions in a Sandbox environment before importing data into Production.

Testing allows you to:

Verify data mappings.
Identify data quality issues.
Refine your import files.
Validate business processes after the import.

Repeat the process until you are confident that the results are correct.

Import Data in Logical Phases

Rather than importing everything at once, import related data in logical groups. For example:

System setup and configuration
Master data (Customers, Vendors, Items, etc.)
Beginning balances
Open transactions
Historical transactions (if applicable)

This approach makes it easier to identify and correct issues during the implementation.

Conclusion

The GoldFinch Conversion app is an efficient and flexible tool for importing data into GoldFinch. Whether you are implementing GoldFinch for the first time or loading additional data after go-live, careful planning, clean source data, and thorough testing are key to a successful data conversion.

By working closely with your GoldFinch Implementation Specialist and validating imports in a Sandbox environment, you can significantly reduce implementation time while ensuring the accuracy and integrity of your data.