Importing multiple excel files does not load records from files with null date values

[dmornad]

I have attached two simple excel files. One has null values for a "date" column. when multiple importing them, the Input Data tool does not import rows from Book2.xlsx file (null date values). The tool will import if I try to single import that file. Any ideas why this behaves differently when multiple importing? I have hundreds of input file and need to use the multiple import format , ie, Book*.xlsx.

[T_Willins · Accepted solution]

Hi @dmornad ,

Alteryx is reading the two files as having different schemas.  A field will all null values will be read as a numeric field, while the files with completed date fields will usually be read as a string field.  When you bring in both in the same input tool, you should get a warning that the second file is not being input due to a different schema.  This can be solved using a simple batch macro:  https://community.alteryx.com/t5/Alteryx-Designer-Knowledge-Base/CS-Macro-Dev-Reading-in-Multiple-Fi...

[echuong1]

The issue revolves around the schema of the datasets changing. The Null values are causing the field to be recognized as a different data type. To get around this, try using a batch macro to import your files. 

I've created an example using the files provided. Let me know if that works!

[dmornad]

Perfect. Thank you.