CSV Enrichment lets you bring external data into Backstory by uploading a CSV file, creating custom fields that can be used in your Engagement Dashboards. This is useful for adding information that lives outside your CRM, such as account territories, product usage metrics, or team segmentation details. Once imported, these fields are available as filters, grouping options, and dashboard parameters.
Note: CSV Enrichment requires a Backstory administrator account.
What This Article Covers
Preparing your CSV file
Uploading a new CSV import
Updating an existing import
Frequently asked questions
Prepare Your CSV File
Before uploading, make sure your file meets the requirements below. Improperly formatted files may fail to import or produce unexpected results.
Only .csv format files are supported.
The first row must be a header row.
Every file must include a unique identifier column:
For Account data: include the CRM Account ID (18-digit Salesforce ID).
For Opportunity data: include the CRM Opportunity ID (18-digit Salesforce ID).
For User data: include the user's email address.
All values must be single-value (no arrays or lists within a single cell).
Currency values will display using the default currency set in your CRM.
Dates must use the format yyyy-MM-dd.
Date-time values must use the format yyyy-MM-dd HH:mm:ss.
Upload a New CSV Import
These steps walk you through uploading a new CSV file and mapping its columns to custom fields in Backstory. Once submitted, the import cannot be deleted, so review your file carefully before finishing.
Log into Backstory as an administrator.
Click the grid icon in the top left corner.
Select Admin Panel.
In the left navigation menu under CRM Sync, click CSV Enrichment.
Click + Upload New CSV in the top right corner.
Select your prepared CSV file and click Next.
Select the column to use as the Unique Identifier and click Next.
Map each CSV column to the appropriate field in Backstory and click Next.
Click the Options for Uploading Data option that matches how you want existing values handled:
Add new values only: keeps any existing value and does not overwrite it.
Add & Overwrite: replaces any existing value with the new one from the CSV.
Wipe & Replace: removes all existing values before adding new ones.
Click Next to proceed to the review screen.
Review the import summary carefully, then click Finish to complete the upload.
Update an Existing Import
If your source data has changed, you can upload a revised CSV against an existing import without creating a new custom field. This keeps your data current without duplicating attributes.
Log into Backstory as an administrator.
Click the grid icon in the top left corner.
Select Admin Panel.
In the left navigation menu under CRM Sync, click CSV Enrichment.
Locate the import you want to update in the table.
Click Update at the end of that import's row.
Select your prepared CSV file and click Next.
Select the column to use as the Unique Identifier and click Next.
Map each CSV column to the appropriate field in Backstory and click Next.
Click the Options for Uploading Data option that matches how you want existing values handled:
Add new values only: keeps any existing value and does not overwrite it.
Add & Overwrite: replaces any existing value with the new one from the CSV.
Wipe & Replace: removes all existing values before adding new ones.
Click Next to proceed to the review screen.
Review the import summary carefully, then click Finish to complete the upload.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of data can I add using the CSV Enrichment?
You can import any external data that helps you analyze your team's performance, such as account territory labels, product usage metrics, opportunity product line information, or rep training completion scores. If you are unsure what would be most valuable, reach out to your CSM for guidance.
How long does it take for imported fields to appear in Engagement Dashboards?
After a successful upload, it may take up to 24 hours for your imported fields to become available in the metric engine. Once available, imported CSV fields appear under the File tab in the Engagement Dashboard columns picker.
Can I delete a CSV import or a custom field after uploading it?
No. Once an import is submitted it cannot be deleted. Review the final summary screen carefully before clicking Finish to avoid creating fields you do not need.
What should I do if some rows fail to import?
Check the Status column in the CSV Enrichment page. Failed rows are flagged in red next to the import summary. Click Log to download a processing report that shows which rows failed and why, so you can correct your file and re-upload.
Can I use imported CSV fields as filters or groupings in Engagement Dashboards?
Yes. Imported CSV fields can be used as filters in Metric and TimeRangeMetric types, and as parameters in FormulaMetric types. You can also use them for Group By and Segment By options within your dashboards.
How do I reference an imported CSV field in a custom metric formula?
Use the following syntax: entity_custom_properties.exact_field_name, where the field name is the exact display name from the attribute table (not its slug).
Need Help?
Contact your CSM or email support@backstory.ai.