This guide shows you how to import existing product data into Programa so you can get started quickly without manual data entry. Programa offers three import options: Smart Schedule Importer for automated AI-powered imports from supported platforms, Custom Schedule Import for your own spreadsheet formats, or Manual Import for complex schedules requiring assistance.
Smart Schedule Importer (IN BETA)
The Smart Schedule Importer uses AI to automatically map and import your existing schedules from supported design platforms.
Supported platforms:
Houzz
Fohlio
MyDoma
Design Files
What gets imported:
Schedule structure (sections and items)
Product details (name, brand, SKU, description)
Dimensions (width, height, depth, length with units)
Pricing (RRP and trade prices)
Quantities
Product images
Materials and finishes (color, material, finish)
Lead times
Notes
Data accuracy: Imported data depends on what's included in your uploaded file. Programa automatically maps your data to the closest matching fields, but some details may need reviewing after import.
Importing into a new project
Export your existing product data from your current platform and save the file to your computer
Click Getting Started in the left navigation bar
Under the Set Up tile, click Import your Content or Help import my existing data
Select the platform you're importing from
Upload your file (.xlsx, .xls, or .csv, max 50MB)
You'll see a confirmation: "Your schedule is being imported. We'll email you when it's ready"
When import completes, click the link in your email to view your new schedule
Importing into an existing project
Export and download your existing product data and save to your computer
Navigate to your project's Files list
Click the + button in the bottom right corner and select Import Schedule
Select the platform you're importing from
Upload your file (.xlsx, .xls, or .csv, max 50MB)
You'll see a confirmation: "Your schedule is being imported. We'll email you when it's ready"
When import completes, click the link in your email to view your new schedule
Custom Schedule Import (IN BETA)
If your schedule is in a spreadsheet format but not from a supported platform, you can upload your own custom-formatted file. The AI will attempt to map your columns to Programa's schedule fields automatically.
Preparing your custom file
Follow these formatting guidelines for best results:
Avoid merged cells - each value should sit in its own cell
Use clear, descriptive column headers (e.g., Product Name, Brand, Price, Quantity)
One product per row - if you include images, ensure they're on the same row as the product
Single worksheet only - if your file contains multiple sheets, only the first sheet will be imported
File size limit: 50MB maximum (no limit on number of products)
Importing a custom schedule
Format your schedule data following the guidelines above
Save your file as .xlsx, .xls, or .csv
Navigate to your project's Files list (or use Getting Started for new projects)
Click the + button and select Import Schedule
Select Custom Format as your import source
Upload your file
You'll see a confirmation: "Your schedule is being imported. We'll email you when it's ready"
When import completes, review your schedule and adjust any fields that need correction
Manual Import
If your schedule format isn't supported by the Smart Schedule Importer, you can use our manual import process. This option requires formatting your data using Programa's template spreadsheet.
Note: Manual schedule processing takes approximately 5-7 business days from receipt of your files.
Preparing your import file
Download the Schedule Import Template - programa_import_schedule_template (1).xlsx
Create a folder named STUDIO NAME_PROJECT NAME_SCHEDULE NAME
Save all schedule images and product attachments into this folder
Format your existing schedule data into the template spreadsheet fields (detailed instructions are included in the template)
Rename the completed file to STUDIO NAME_PROJECT NAME_SCHEDULE NAME.xls
Create a zip folder containing the spreadsheet, images, and attachments
Submitting your manual import
Send the zip file to team@programa.com.au or via live chat in your Programa account
Programa will process your import and load the data into your nominated project
You'll receive notification when your schedule is ready (approximately 5-7 business days)
Template guidelines
Schedule structure: The template includes 10 default section tabs that you can rename, add, or remove. Sections can be organized by product category (e.g., Floor Finishes) or location/room (e.g., Kitchen).
Data accuracy: Follow the field guidelines provided in the template carefully. Programa cannot correct data errors if incomplete or inaccurate information is supplied.
Key fields and formatting:
Images and attachments: Copy and paste file names (not the files themselves) into the relevant fields
Dimensions: Enter single numbers only (e.g., 250, not "250mm")
Quantities: Enter numbers only, without units
Prices: Enter numbers without currency symbols
Markup: Enter percentages without the % symbol
Lead time: Select from dropdown options
Status: Choose from dropdown options
Need more help with importing schedules? Contact our support team via live chat for personalized assistance.