How do I Merge Duplicates?

So your data import is done, and you're feeling ready to roll!  

But wait, what's this orange alert that has popped up under Contacts?

If your data upload included contacts that appear suspiciously similar, they will be automatically flagged as duplicates.  It's then up to you to review them, decide if they really are duplicate records, and merge them!

The process is simple (and oh-so satisfying) - first click Duplicates.

You'll then be shown a list of all the potential duplicate pairs.

Click on the pair of names, or the blue Review button next to the duplicate you'd like to review. 

Now you'll see a more detailed side-by-side comparison of the duplicate profiles.  Is one obviously the more complete, better profile? Select it by clicking in the circle beneath the record!

TIP: If you need more information, you can always click "View Full Profile" to inspect each record more thoroughly.

When you merge contact records, any blank fields from the selected profile will be populated with the data from the secondary profile (if available).  The selected profile's data will remain fully intact.  For example, if we select T. Duplicate as the primary record, after the merge it will have the address field from Test Duplicate, but retain the same email address.

Remember: All giving records will be transferred onto a single contact record - you won't lose any donation records when you merge contacts.

After you've reviewed your duplicates, you've got two choices - select These Aren't Duplicates to get rid of this pairing on your Duplicates screen, or Merge Contacts to make them one again!

You don't have to rely on Donor Management to flag your duplicates either - if you have two records you need to merge, you can flag them yourself by selecting each contact record, clicking More and then choosing Flag Potential Duplicates!

You may have a lot of duplicates when you first import your data, but try not to feel overwhelmed.  It's quick and easy to review your dupes, and your database will thank you for it!