How to handle error while loading data into staging table from excel.

[Obito]

Hi All,

we are importing data using data source and business has some questions like 

1) is there any possibility of error while loading data into staging table and how to tackle it.

2) is there any possibility of partially loading of data into staging table and how to handle it.

I want to in what scenarios the error will while loading data & system will load partial data. Please guide me here

Thanks,

[Danish Bhairag2 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Obito ,

When importing data into ServiceNow using a data source, errors or partial loading can occur due to various reasons. Let's explore potential scenarios for errors and partial data loading and how to handle them:

1. **Errors While Loading Data:**

   - **Data Format Issues:** Ensure that the data in the import file adheres to the expected format. Incorrect data types, missing or extra columns, or formatting issues can lead to errors.

   - **Validation Rules:** If your staging table has business rules or data validation scripts, errors may occur if the imported data violates these rules.

   - **Unique Constraints:** If your staging table has unique constraints (e.g., unique keys), attempting to insert duplicate records can result in errors.

   **Handling Errors:**

   - Review error logs: Check the import set table for error messages and logs related to failed imports.

   - Correct data issues: Address format, validation, or uniqueness issues in the source data.

   - Validate data before import: Implement pre-import data validation checks to catch issues before the actual import process.

2. **Partially Loading Data:**

   - **Transaction Failures:** If there are transaction failures during the import, it may result in partial data loading. For example, if one record fails, the entire transaction might be rolled back, leading to partial data loading.

   - **Scripted Transform Maps:** If you are using scripted transform maps, errors in your scripts may cause partial loading.

   - **Asynchronous Processes:** If the import process involves asynchronous operations (e.g., scripts running in the background), partial loading might occur if some operations fail.

   **Handling Partial Loading:**

   - **Transaction Management:** Ensure proper transaction management. If a transaction fails, implement mechanisms to rollback only the failed parts and continue processing other records.

   - **Logging and Monitoring:** Implement detailed logging and monitoring to identify records causing failures and take corrective actions.

   - **Error Handling in Scripts:** Ensure your import set scripts handle errors gracefully and do not prevent the processing of other records.

**Tips:**

- Regularly monitor and analyze import logs for any recurring issues.

- Implement comprehensive data validation checks and enforce data quality standards before initiating imports.

- Conduct thorough testing before deploying changes to data sources, data mappings, or import configurations.

By addressing these potential issues and implementing robust error-handling mechanisms, you can minimize the risk of errors and partial data loading during the import process in ServiceNow.

Thanks,

Danish