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Creating a CSV Database

Jomar
Updated

Introduction

To send surveys in AskNicely, you first need to define who you're sending them to. This is done through your Contacts data, which acts as the foundation for all survey logic, reporting, and personalization.

This article will help you understand how to create a well-structured CSV file for importing Contacts into AskNicely. Whether you’re getting started from scratch or exporting from your CRM, this guide ensures your data is ready for surveys, segmentation, and insightful reporting.

âś… Already have your CSV? Import it with the CSV Importer.
âś… Have a CRM? Check for integrations.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Understand What Contacts Are

In AskNicely, Contacts are the people you plan to send surveys to—typically customers, clients, or users. Before you begin personalizing survey content, emails, or dashboard views, you need to define who these Contacts are.

2. Create Your CSV File

A CSV (Comma Separated Values) file is the simplest format to build your Contacts list. You can:

  • Export it from your CRM

  • Compile it manually in Excel or Google Sheets

  • Use a downloadable AskNicely sample

🔥 AskNicely recommends uploading at least 50 Contacts for your first test or pilot survey.

3. Include Required & Custom Fields

At a minimum, your CSV file should contain:

  • Name

  • Email

Other optional but valuable columns include:

  • Store Location

  • Account Manager

  • Customer ID

  • Language, Brand, or Segment

These additional fields let you:

  • Personalize email content

  • Customize survey templates

  • Segment response reporting (e.g., by location, manager, or stage in customer journey)

4. Formatting Tips

  • âś… Start your column headers on Row 1 of the spreadsheet

  • âś… Save or export your file as .CSV format

  • âś… Use consistent field naming across uploads

  • âś… Add columns for any custom data you may want to analyze later

đź’ˇ Hot Tips:

  • Download the CSV sample template from the CSV Importer page

  • Add new columns now if you plan to track additional fields in the future

  • Use plain, clean formatting—avoid formulas, merged cells, or hidden columns

FAQs & Common Issues

  • Q: Can I use my own spreadsheet file format (e.g., Excel)?
    A: You must export it as a .CSV file before uploading.

  • Q: What if I’m missing some data?
    A: That’s okay—start with what you have. You can update or expand later using the CSV Importer.

  • Q: How should I decide which custom fields to include?
    A: Think about how you’ll want to segment survey responses. Anything you’ll want to filter or analyze should be a column.

Next Steps & Related Articles

Helpful Analogy: Contacts as Wedding Guests

Think of building your Contacts database like planning a wedding:

  • Everyone in your CSV is getting an invitation (a survey)

  • Some guests have a plus-one, some are in the wedding party, others attend the rehearsal dinner

  • These are the custom fields in your CSV (e.g., “Plus One”, “Meal Type”, “VIP Status”)

Once uploaded, AskNicely uses this data to:

  • Send the right surveys to the right people

  • Group responses meaningfully (e.g., what’s the NPS score for the wedding party vs. solo attendees?)

  • Drive powerful insights based on segmentation

The better your data, the more AskNicely can do for you.

Have questions? Reach out via the chat icon on any page or email us at support@asknice.ly.

 

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