Tip: Channel Mappings: Part I
Some of our users run into problems setting up new feeds with the channel activation wizard. A lot of these errors come during the field mapping section of the wizard. I wanted to share a helpful hint that I use to set up the field mappings.
The first thing I do is go to the Catalog Tab and then to the Import section. Here you will see your datasources be it Yahoo! XML files or a Custom CSV file.
I always click on Edit button in the mappings section of this screen. This is where I can see how the fields from my datasources were mapped to the available FeedPerfect fields. After reviewing all of the mappings I scribble down all of the FeedPerfect fields that I know are mapped to fields in my datasource (as these are the fields that will actually have data in them.)
Once I have my list of FeedPerfect fields, I can now go and map these fields to the fields that the engine supports. You will notice that when you get to the channel mapping section that there are already fields mapped to the channel fields.
NOTE OF IMPORTANCE: The fields that are mapped by default may not have any data in them. You can cross-reference the defaults vs your list and see which you can leave and which you will have to replace.
As each engine supports different fields and has different required fields, this list can save you a lot of guessing or having to double check your import screen every two seconds.
I know this will save clients time and prevent frustration. It certainly has for me!
-MM