Import contact data from other sources

Import from a file - overview
Import from Microsoft Outlook
Import from CSV
Import from Google CSV
Import from vCard
Resolving import conflicts
Comparison of import methods
Best methods for transferring data between computers

Import from a file - overview

Easiest way to import from a file of any supported file type (.CSV, .VCF, and database backup files .DB):

• Resize Windows Explorer window and E-Z Contact Book windows so both are visible side by side
• Click the file you want to import in Windows explorer, hold the left mouse button, and drag it into the E-Z Contact Book window. Release the button to start the import process automatically.

The program determines the appropriate import option based on the file type. If the file lacks contact group information, you will be prompted to select a group. Multiple files, even in different formats, can be imported simultaneously.

Alternatively, use the menu Data > Import

In the following dialog, you will have to choose how you would like to import the contacts:

Import from Microsoft Outlook

To import from installed version of Outlook (desktop app):

• Select Data > Import > ...from Outlook
• Choose the contact group for import

To import from web version of Outlook:

• Export contacts to a .CSV file
• Import that file To export, check this instruction

After completion, a summary will display the number of imported contacts.

Import from CSV files

Contacts from an Excel spreadsheet must be saved as a comma-separated values (CSV) file to import in E-Z Contact Book.

Before importing, open the CSV file in Excel (or OpenOffice Calc) and ensure:

• The first row contains column titles (e.g. First Name, Last Name, Phone, Email, etc.)
• The First Name and Last Name columns exist (mandatory)
• Unused columns are removed to simplify mapping
• A "Group" column can be added to organize contacts; otherwise, all will be imported into one selected group

To import, select Data > Import > from CSV file, or drag and drop the file into the program.

If column names don't match, the Import Mapping screen appears. Drag and drop items between source and destination fields to map them correctly. Once done, click Import.

Example of how to import contacts from Thunderbird Address Book:

• Open Thunderbird and go to Tools > Address Book
• Right-click on address book and select Export...
• Choose "Comma Separated" as export type and save the file
• Import the file to E-Z Contact Book

Import from Google CSV files

• Export contacts from your Google account
• Import it via Data > Import > from Google CSV file or by dragging the file into E-Z Contact Book

Import from vCard (VCF) files

To import from a vCard file:

• Drag and drop the file into the program window, or
• Open Data > Import > from vCard file

If the vCard contains multiple contacts, all will be imported. Supported versions: 2.1 and 3.0.

Resolve import conflicts

During import, the program identifies duplicates based on First Name + Last Name:

• If no match is found, a new contact is created
• If a perfect match exists, the import skips the contact
• If differences exist, the Conflict Editor appears, allowing you to review and update records:

The editor provides options to:

• Update individual fields
• Overwrite all fields with imported data

Conflicts can be resolved manually or skipped for later review.

Comparison of import methods

Different systems store contact data in varied formats. E-Z Contact Book attempts to map fields as closely as possible:

• Microsoft Outlook: Most fields map correctly, but some minor fields may be excluded
• CSV Files: If correctly mapped, importing and re-exporting should produce identical data
• vCard Files: Image fields are not supported

Group types (Personal/Business) are unavailable in VCF files and CSV filesand must be set manually after import.

Best methods for transferring data between computers

• Database Backup and Restore (*.db files) - retains all data and settings
• Syncing – allows real-time data updates between multiple computers, avoiding manual exports/imports