Data Backfilling is a pro term that refers to the process of filling in missing or correcting incorrect data within a Data Extension. There are several methods for adding or updating data in a Data Extension, and specific conditions determine the success of a backfill. Let’s explore a concept that leverages both Contact Builder and Query Studio…
Manual Export and Import
Whenever possible, I avoid exporting data to external files for editing outside of Salesforce Marketing Cloud (SFMC). Instead, I utilize Contact Builder to import data into an intermediate table. This intermediate table serves as a clone for testing data backfill scenarios. Eventually, it can even function as the production Data Extension (DE).
Adding Data
Adding data can be as straightforward as setting a default value in the intermediate table before importing data. Each record then receives the same value, ensuring consistency. To incorporate data from other Data Extensions (DEs), I recommend using Query Studio. Pull the necessary columns and values for related records from other tables, storing the results in a temporary QueryStudio DE. This temporary DE can then serve as the source for importing data into the intermediate table via Contact Builder.
Calculating Values and Importing
For more complex scenarios, utilize SQL functions and Query Studio to calculate the required columns or values. Again, use a temporary DE as the source for importing data through Contact Builder.