Missing column on XLS input

Question

I frequently receive files in .xls format. I've been working on a workflow with these xls files and noticed that the first column isn't being pulled in. I'm simply using an input data tool and have no idea why that column is missing.

Especially because earlier today it worked just fine pulling in every column. Unfortunately, I can't share the data, but I'll share screenshots that should give some clarity. The Alteryx input is missing Column A from my xls file and it does the same thing when I try pulling in other xls files.

I realize there are work arounds like changing the file type to .xlsx, but I'd prefer a solution that uses these files exactly as I receive them since I have a lot of them to work with. Any help is appreciated!

Alteryx Input.PNG

XLS File.PNG

harithahamad · Answer

Hi! I'm also facing the same issue with .XLS file. Have tried out all the suggestions above with no success. Would be really great if someone could help on resolving this!

patrick_digan · Answer

@lsalmon33 really strange. The only thing I can think of is whether or not you have the file open while you run your alteryx process. Maybe try it both ways (excel file open and excel file closed) to see if that makes a difference by any chance?

danilang · Answer

Hi @lsalmon33

I realize that you can't share the data, but can you create an anonymized copy?  Open the existing file.  Delete everything except the first few rows and columns and change the data values to dummy ones?  The key thing is that after input the first column is still missing.

Dan