Checklist for the datafile

Before uploading your data file to the GAIS platform, it is important that it is qualified and checked for errors.

For GAIS Premium customers, your assigned GAIS specialist will qualify the file for you, but before sending it to the GAIS specialist, it is important that it is cleaned of various spelling errors and hidden columns that can cause confusion later on.

The GAIS platform only knows what we tell it, so it is important not to feed it incorrect data or data that can be misunderstood.

1. Choose the Right Format 

The data file uploaded to GAIS should be clean, raw data, and therefore we recommend saving the data file as CSV.

2. No Secrets

Remember to unfold all hidden columns and rows. Many errors can hide here, which can cause problems on the platform.

3. Be Consistent 

 It is important to spell names, titles, etc., in the same way. The platform will read Anders A Hansen, Anders A. Hansen, and Anders Anker Hansen as three different people. Therefore, it is important to be consistent with spellings of names, titles, etc. 

Likewise, it is important to be aware of spelling errors and uppercase and lowercase letters. If you write Woman in one place and woman or Wman, you have three different genders. 

If in 2019 you called all women W, Ladies, or female and then in 2023 changed it to Woman, you will not be able to see the time development, as the platform cannot read but only understands that we have added another gender. 

Therefore, it is important to be thorough when setting up the CSV file and choosing names for categories, departments, etc.

4. Pay Attention to the Small Things 

When looking for spelling errors, also be aware of extra spaces, spaces after names, and any commas that do not belong. 

If it says “Marina Jensen” and "Marina Jensen " (with an extra space after), this is read as two different names, so extra spaces must be removed.

If you have a column where it says N/A, remember that it must not say “NA” or “N / A”.

5. Delete What You Do Not Need 

If you have columns with sensitive personal data, they must be deleted. When the file is uploaded to the Organization on the GAIS platform, you can choose “Do not use” for the columns you do not want to use as filters, but the CSV file is still saved on the platform - including the columns that cannot be seen. 

In general, it is a good idea to delete the columns that are not needed. This makes the data file more manageable when it needs to be updated and reduces the risk of errors.

Download our checklist for a good data file