Query How To?

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Hi, I am attempting to create a query for a vendor who will be helping us with some calls. It's essentially an export of our current donor data so they can reference the donor's data while on the phone with them. They require specific fields. In some cases, it's fairly straightforward (name, email, etc.). In other cases, it's something they require on their dataset that we don't have or use, and I just need my query to output a blank column in that space with the header named what they want so that it matches their file system, but doesn't include any of our data. I feel like this is basic, but I cannot figure out how to do that. I know how to rename headers, but I can't figure out the blank column part. I want to be able to just run the file and send it, without having to go in and add columns and make adjustments every time I send it. 


Does this make sense? Thanks in advance!

Comments

  • One way - possibly not the best but it works for us - is to assign one or more "VBA fields" (changing the heading to whatever you want it to be.  As there is no actual VB code associated with the field you get the column-header you assigned and a blank column.
  • Good idea! Hey, if it makes it work, that's fine with me! Thank you.
  • Hi Folks, I am making progress!


    How do I prevent duplicate rows for the same person in a query that is a full donor export?


    I need to be able to run a full donor list, and only export their last payment information, for the last few years. Suggestions on fields to bring in to get the latest info, and not have duplicates?
  • Are you using query? If yes, as soon as you have a one to many relationship it will output a separate line for each - resulting in "duplicates".

    Use Export instead.

    also, see here: https://kb.blackbaud.com/articles/Article/52603

     
  • Thanks, Cathleen!
  • Last questions, I promise. I have created the export, and the file run is huge. Essentially I am trying to export active donors and information about them and their respective one time or sustaining gift. Would you do something like an "as of July 1" for the date parameters? I initially went back to January 1, 2018, but due to recurring payments on nearly 65% of our donors, it was a huge file. I am thinking it makes sense that I run more recently, but I can't get my head around the fact that someone who donated last September is still active, and include them in the file. Thoughts?
  • Marie Stark
    Marie Stark ✭✭✭✭✭
    Ancient Membership Facilitator 3 Name Dropper Photogenic
    Are you exporting all the gifts? Maybe you could just export "Last Gift" information.
  • It sounds like you what you need is a Constituent export with Summary information (see screen shot)  and also include "Last  gift" as a field?

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