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Supported6 min readUpdated June 5, 2026

Import SharePoint columns into mapping

Use real SharePoint column metadata to improve field mappings, control types, required flags, and save formulas.

Quick answer

In short

Importing columns makes the mapping table use the destination list’s actual column inventory instead of relying only on names inferred from InfoPath.

Most likely cause

Export errors and wrong controls often come from stale mapping data that did not include the destination SharePoint column type.

What to do next

After choosing the target list/library, click Import columns into mapping, then review Optional Settings for any changed mappings.

What improves after import

  • Target internal column names become more accurate.
  • Required flags can reflect SharePoint configuration.
  • Date, Boolean, text, choice, number, and person-like controls are easier to classify.
  • Suggested and unmapped rows are easier to review.

Merge behavior

Import should preserve manual overrides unless you explicitly reset mappings. That lets you load fresh columns without losing a builder decision you already made.

When to clear imported columns

Clear imported columns only when you loaded the wrong target list or when the destination list changed enough that a clean import is safer than merging metadata.

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