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How to Import Schedule Items from Excel Files

Importing schedule items from Excel allows you to quickly migrate existing project timelines into Buildern without manually recreating each task. In this guide, you’ll learn how to import schedule items using an Excel or CSV file.



Supported Import Sources

Step 1: Access the Import Option

To begin importing:

  1. Open your project in Buildern.

  2. Click the Import button in the top-right corner.

  3. Select Import from Excel.

Next Select Schedule.

Step 2: Upload Your Excel File

You can now upload your file by:

  • Dragging and dropping it into the designated area, or

  • Clicking to browse and selecting the file from your computer

Once uploaded, Buildern will display a preview of your schedule data for review.

ℹ️ Note: Buildern provides a ready-made Schedule Template that you can download and use as an example. This template shows the correct structure and required fields for importing. While column names and order are not mandatory, following the template format helps ensure a smooth import process.

Step 3: Configure Column Mapping

After uploading the file, you’ll be prompted to configure the data shown in the columns.

Here you can:

  • Review task names

  • Verify start and end dates

  • Confirm durations

  • Adjust column mapping if needed

Make sure each column from your Excel file is correctly matched with the corresponding Buildern field.

At this stage, you can manually adjust how each Excel column maps to Buildern fields.

Each column includes a dropdown menu that allows you to:

  • Select the correct Buildern field (Title, Start, End, Duration, Assignee, etc.)

  • Change the mapped field if the system assigned it incorrectly

  • Leave a column unmapped if it’s not needed

ℹ️ Note: Column names and order in your Excel file do not need to exactly match Buildern’s structure. You can change the column mapping during this step before proceeding.

When finished, click Continue.

💡 Tip: Double-check date formats to ensure tasks appear correctly in your timeline.

Step 4: Match Assignees

Next, you’ll review and match task assignees with your Buildern database.

Turn on the Match Assignee option if you want to verify or adjust assignee information.

You will have three options for each person:

1. Leave Unmatched – The name will not be connected to any user in Buildern.

2. Match with Existing User – Link the task to someone already in your Buildern account.

3. Create New User – Add a new person to your Buildern workspace.

ℹ️ Note:When adding a new assignee, choose a Person Type: User (requires role and email, counts as a paid seat) or Sub/Vendor (limited access, no extra cost, ideal for subcontractors and external partners).

Step 5: Complete the Import

Once everything is reviewed:

  1. Confirm your column settings

  2. Finalize assignee matching

  3. Click Import

Your schedule items will now appear in your Buildern Schedule view, including the List, Gantt, and Calendar formats.

After Import: What to Review

After importing, review the task hierarchy, check any included dependencies, confirm task durations, adjust colors or labels if needed, and verify assignments to make sure your schedule accurately reflects your project timeline.


More tips and features are coming up next to help you work smarter in Buildern.

Happy Building!

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