How do I import my seminar programme?

Want to upload your entire seminar programme quickly, without adding sessions one by one?
Showoff CMS makes it easy to import your full agenda using a CSV (spreadsheet) file.
Follow the steps below to prepare your data, upload it, and get your programme live in minutes.

Step 1: Import Your Speakers First (If Needed)

If your sessions will include speakers or chairpersons, these must be added to the CMS before you import your sessions.

📘 See our guide: Adding Speakers Manually and in Bulk

Once speakers are uploaded, you’re ready to import your sessions.

Step 2: Set Up Your Programme

1. Log in to your CMS and go to Modules > Seminars.

2. If you plan to assign streams or locations, add these first using the tabs in this section.

   (You’ll need these ready before the import.)

3. Click Add Seminar, give your new programme an appropriate name, and Save.
   This creates the programme shell that you’ll import sessions into.

Step 3: Prepare Your Import File (CSV)

You’ll need to create a CSV spreadsheet containing your sessions.
Download the template CSV file (attached) for reference — it includes sample data to guide you.

Mandatory Fields:

• Session Code – A unique identifier for each session.

• Title – The session title (this appears on your website).

Recommended (but optional) Fields:

• Date

• Start Time

• End Time

Including date and time gives you more layout options for displaying your programme on the website.

Notes:

• To assign multiple locations or streams to a session, separate values with commas.

  • Example: A1, B1 assigns two locations.

  • Example: Mobile & Social Stage assigns one.

• If you’re exporting data from an external system, ask ASP to confirm that the format is correct before importing.

Step 4: Import Your Sessions

1. Go back to Modules > Seminars and open your new programme.

2. Click More > Import Sessions.

3. Upload your prepared CSV file and hit Submit.

Step 5: Map Your Fields

The system will display a mapping screen, where you match your CSV columns to CMS fields.

At the top, choose your Import Method:

• Add New – For a brand-new programme with no existing sessions.

• Update Existing – When updating sessions already in the CMS.

• Add & Update – Use when your CSV includes both new and existing sessions.

If you’ve used the official CSV template, most columns will map automatically — but double-check before submitting.

Step 6: Map Speakers, Locations & Streams

If your import includes speakers, chairpersons, locations, or streams, you’ll be prompted to map these next.
Simply match each to the corresponding field or entry in the CMS.

Step 7: Preview and Confirm

You’ll see a preview screen showing your data before final import.
Take a moment to review the information carefully.

When you’re happy, click Submit to complete the import.
Your sessions will now appear within the CMS and display on your event website once published.

Quick Tips

✅ Always import speakers before sessions if you plan to link them.
✅ Include start and end times for better agenda display options.
✅ Save your original CSV for future updates or imports.
✅ Check your programme on the live site after importing to confirm formatting and accuracy.

Congratulations! 🎉
You’ve successfully imported your seminar programme into Showoff CMS.
If you encounter any issues or see unexpected results after import, contact the ASP Support Team for assistance — we’re here to help.