1️⃣ What are Import Sets?

Import Sets are temporary staging tables in ServiceNow that allow you to import data from external sources without directly affecting production data.

• Safely bring external data into ServiceNow
• Used for bulk data loading from external systems
• Supports multiple data sources like CSV, Excel, JDBC, LDAP, or REST APIs

💡 Key Concept: Data lands in the Import Set Table first, then is transformed into target tables.

Key Components

1. Import Set Table – Staging table created automatically (e.g., u_import_users).
2. Data Source – Defines where the data comes from (CSV, database, REST API).
3. Transform Map – Rules to move data from Import Set Table to target table.

Basic Example

Import an Employee CSV into sys_user table:

• Full Name → name
• Email → email
• Department → department

2️⃣ What are Transform Maps?

Transform Maps define how to transform data from Import Set tables to target tables.

Key Features

• Field Mapping – Source → Target field mapping
• Coalesce – Prevents duplicates by checking key fields
• Transform Scripts – Add custom logic to the transformation process

Transform Script Example (onBefore)

(function transformEntry(source, target, map, log, isUpdate) {
    // Auto-set asset status if missing
    if (!target.install_status) {
        target.install_status = 1; // Installed
    }
})(source, target, map, log, action==="update");
    

3️⃣ Advanced Concepts

• Multi-Row Transform Maps – One source record creates multiple target records
• Scripted Transform Maps – Full control using scripts instead of field mapping
• Business Rules and Data Policies – Still apply during import
• Transform Map Order – Multiple maps can run in sequence
• Import Set API – Automate imports using GlideImportSetAPI

CASE STUDY 2:4️⃣ Real-World Examples

Example 1: HR Onboarding

• Import Workday CSV into sys_user
• Coalesce on email to update existing users
• Use Transform Script to auto-assign departments

Example 2: CMDB Population

• Import server inventory CSV into cmdb_ci_computer
• Coalesce on serial_number to avoid duplicates
• Auto-fill location based on department mapping

Example 3: Vendor Integration

• Import vendor contacts via REST API
• Use onAfter Script to send a welcome email

5️⃣ Best Practices

• ✅ Always use Coalesce to prevent duplicates
• ✅ Test imports in sub-production first
• ✅ Use onStart and onComplete scripts for pre/post processing
• ✅ Schedule imports for recurring data loads
• ✅ Enable Transform History for auditing

🎬Conclusion

Import Sets and Transform Maps are the backbone of data migration in ServiceNow. They provide a safe, flexible, and scriptable way to bring external data into the platform.

Process Flow: Import Set → Transform Map → Target Table

By combining coalesce, scripting, and automation, you can achieve efficient and accurate data migration in ServiceNow. ✅