CSV stands for comma-separated values and a CSV file is a type of document designed to transfer large amounts of data.
With a CSV file, you can transfer large amounts of data between databases in an effective, error-free way.
If you can’t connect two databases, exporting data to this file type is the best and the quickest way to transfer the data.
Why use a CSV file?
A CSV file organizes all your data into a simple table format. Using this format avoids formatting errors, font size or font type issues, and ensures that the data is readable by most softwares.
You won’t have to enter any data by hand, or spend time correcting errors, cleaning up the data, or reformatting it to suit the new programme.
But note that CSV files can’t be used to set up formulas, calculations, or visualisations, like Excel or Google Sheets can. The purpose is just straightforward data storage and transfer.
When do I need one?
CSV files are really helpful when you need to move data from one program to another. Most softwares will have the option to export and import CSV files.
Let’s say for example that you need to transfer financial reports from your business’ accounting software to a dedicated annual accounting software. Since these softwares usually can’t connect directly to each other, exporting a CSV file from the accounting software and importing it in your annual accounting programme makes the process of transferring data quicker and more accurate.
You could always manually enter the data into another software, but downloading this file type is a better choice—it’s more accurate and saves you a lot of time. Whether you’re pulling reports from a CRM system or uploading customer emails to an email marketing platform, a CSV file makes the process much smoother for you.