How to import existing stakeholder lists into the SMRV platform.
If you already have stakeholder data, you can save time by importing it directly into the SMRV platform instead of starting from scratch.
Can I import a stakeholder list I already have? Yes. You can upload a CSV or paste in your data using the import tool. Just make sure you include:
While category and name are the minimum requirements, you can also include other information in your import:
Importing an existing list can significantly accelerate your stakeholder mapping process, especially for projects with many stakeholders or multiple sites.
Click "Import List" in Step 2 of the module. You'll be guided through the format. Once uploaded, you'll still need to review and complete the questions for each stakeholder.
Always review the preview before finalizing your import to ensure data is mapping correctly to the expected fields. This helps avoid having to correct misaligned information later.
To ensure a smooth import process, follow these format guidelines:
CSV Format Guidelines
Here's a sample CSV format to use as a template:
Category,StakeholderName,ConnectionType,Description,InfluenceLevel
Government,District Forest Office,Policy oversight,Manages forest permits and compliance,High
Communities affected by the project,Riverside Farmers Association,Lives in area,Small-scale farmers using riverside plots,Medium
Partner Agencies,Conservation International,Technical support,Provides GIS mapping expertise,Medium
You can download a template CSV from the import interface to ensure your data is properly structured for import.
Importing stakeholders is just the first step. After import, you'll need to:
The import tool helps you get started quickly, but the value of stakeholder mapping comes from the detailed analysis you provide for each stakeholder after they're in the system.
After importing, prioritize completing the analysis for your most critical stakeholders first. This ensures you capture the most important insights even if you're unable to complete the analysis for all stakeholders in one session.
If you encounter problems during import:
Common Import Issues
After initial import, you can also use the import feature to update multiple stakeholders simultaneously. This is particularly useful when:
For bulk updates:
When performing bulk updates, use the stakeholder ID from your export to ensure updates are matched to the correct existing records.
Remember that importing a stakeholder list is just the beginning:
To get the most from your imported data, schedule time for your team to collectively review and enhance the stakeholder information after import. This collaborative process often surfaces important insights that weren't captured in your original stakeholder list.