How to solve data import errors?

Spotzi offers users the option to visualize their own data by converting Excel or CSV files into ready-to-go maps. However, users may encounter obstacles when importing data files into Spotzi’s interface. The most efficient approach to file import may vary depending on the specific file type or data you want to visualize.

Below, we outline common problems and provide solutions.

Solving Issues with Importing Excel or CSV Files

If you want to geocode an Excel or CSV file and convert it into map points or visualize data by postcode area, here are common problems and their solutions:

• Importing a file with too many rows may cause an import timeout. If this happens, split your dataset into smaller files and try again.
• If the XLS/XLSX archive cannot be opened or contains unimportable data, export it as a CSV file and re-upload it.
• In some cases, saving your CSV as a CSV (MS-DOS) may be helpful.
• If your Excel file includes hidden fields, they may interfere with the import process.
• When dealing with multi-tabbed Excel files, Spotzi Geocoder will only geocode data from the active tab.
• Ensure that table headers in your CSV/Excel files do not contain numbers or special characters as they might interfere with the import process.
• Make sure your file’s first row uses correct headers to help the Spotzi Geocoder determine the right data fields. For more information on geocoding, visit our geocoding page.
• If your file contains only ZIP codes, add an extra "country" column to your Excel/CSV for better geocoding results.
• For importing ZIP codes with leading zeros, refer to our guide on importing ZIP codes.

Solving Issues with Importing Geographic Data

If you encounter errors importing KML, Shapefile, or geoJSON data into our platform, check for the following common problems:

• File Format Issues
• Problem: Mismatched formats or version compatibility problems. Spotzi Geomarketing Platform supports CSV, XLS(X), GeoJSON, SHP(ZIP), KML, and GPX.
• Solution: Convert your geographic file to one of the supported file types using tools like this one.
• Data Integrity and Structure
• Problem: Corrupted or incomplete data files. For example, a Shapefile (.shp) must include at least .shp, .shx, and .dbf files in the zipped archive.
• Solution: For more information on file formats and examples, check the following links:
• KML files
• GeoJSON files
• Shapefiles
• Projection and Coordinate System
• Problem: Mismatched coordinate systems or unsupported projections.
• Solution: Use (online) converters to adjust the coordinate system or map projection, such as this one.
• File Size and Server Limitations
• Problem: Large file size or server restrictions. Spotzi allows files of up to 256 MB to be imported.
• Solution: Divide large files into smaller parts. For importing larger files, contact us for more information.

If you're still unsure how to solve these import errors, please contact us for assistance.