Release Notes: Sept 2024

Release Notes: Sept 2024

What's New

Improved Sumac Data Imports

We've made some exciting updates to how Sumac handles data imports, focusing on streamlining the interface and expanding the options available to you. These changes address common requests from our users, making importing data faster, more intuitive, and more powerful.



Benefits of this Update

  1. Simplified Interface Fewer steps and clearer options make importing data quicker and less complex.
  2. Expanded Functionality Support for more module types, including Payments, Time Dockets, and Memberships.
  3. Improved Template Management New tools make it easier to create, edit, and preview import templates.
With this update, you’ll notice a redesigned interface in the Utilities area, reducing the number of options for a more straightforward experience. We’ve also made it easier to manage your webforms and introduced new capabilities for Templated Imports.

Updated Import Area Options

When you access Data Management in the Utilities area, you’ll now find only three options:



  1. Import lets you choose from different import methods.
  2. Import Workspace is the familiar workspace that helps you clean and format your data, preparing it for import into Sumac.
  3. Manage Webforms is where you can check your online webform logs, handle any errors, and initiate imports from your donation or membership webforms. This ensures that your database stays synchronised with the latest webform submissions.

Streamlined Import Methods

When you click on "Import," you’ll now see two available methods:



  1. Templated Import (previously called Universal Import) is your go-to method for repeated imports where consistency and accuracy are essential.
  2. One-Time Import is the regular import method for ad-hoc imports, now with a refreshed, cleaner user interface for easier navigation.

New Features in Templated Import

We’ve introduced several important enhancements to Templated Imports:

Support for New Modules 

Templated Imports now cover additional modules, including:

  1. Payments
  2. Time Dockets
  3. and Memberships.
Alert
Although not all fields are fully supported yet, this expansion offers much more flexibility. Let us know if you need support for any specific fields that aren’t currently available!

Updated Interface

The Templated Import interface has been updated for a more user-friendly experience. From the first screen, you can quickly create a new template or edit an existing one.




Improved Template Creation Process 

When creating a new template, you’ll be prompted to name it, select the type of data you’re importing, and choose a file that will serve as your guide. This streamlined process makes setting up new imports simpler.


New Basic Import Template Screen

Once your template is selected, you’ll be taken to a new Basic Import Template screen that displays all the supported fields for your import. You can easily map Sumac fields to corresponding fields in your import file.


New Search Option 

We’ve also added a new search option to help you find specific fields quickly!



Preview Panel

A preview on the right side of the screen allows you to see your field mappings in real time, making it easy to spot any fields that haven’t yet been mapped.



Advanced Import Options

For more complex imports, you can switch to the legacy "Universal Import Interface" by clicking “Switch to Advanced” in the top right corner. This gives you access to all the advanced features from the original interface.



Improved Support for US Language Preference

We’ve added enhanced support for US English, ensuring that our US-based users experience Sumac with region-appropriate language and settings. This update separates US and Canadian English more clearly within the system, improving the overall experience for users in different regions.

Benefits of this update:

  1. Localized language support: The interface now better reflects US English conventions, making it easier for users to navigate and understand.
  2. Simple setup process: Quickly switch between US and Canadian English based on your preferences.


Idea

How to Update Your Language Settings:

1. To adjust your language settings, go to Utilities > Customize Database > Preferences.



2. In User preferences, navigate to System Appearance and select English (US).



3. Restart Sumac, and your interface will now reflect US regional settings instead of Canadian spellings.



Alert
We're eager to hear your thoughts on these new features and enhancements. Your feedback is crucial to us, so please share your experience and suggestions at product@societ.com.