Sarah's Shortcuts: The Joy of Batch Templates

Unless we're talking about making cookies, cakes, or crepes, I pretty much never like to start from scratch. There may be underlying laziness contributing to my perspective, but I would argue that I'm an advocate for efficiency. Why require extra work when you can reuse something you've already done?

The same principle applies in The Raiser's Edge when you're working in Batch. If you often use the same data entry fields, it makes sense to set up a batch template (BB1761) that you can later recreate with the click of a button, rather than having to reselect each field in a subsequent batch.

To create a gift batch template:

1. Create a new gift batch.
2. On the Batch Header tab, enter a name such as "Pledge Template" in the Batch Number field, and mark the Other users may access this batch checkbox.
3. On the Fields tab, select the appropriate fields.
4. On the Defaults tab, enter default values and/or hide certain fields, as needed.
5. Save the batch without entering any gifts in the Data Entry grid.

1. Create a new gift batch.
2. On the bottom right of the Fields tab in the Gift Batch Setup screen, click Load from Existing Batch.
3. Select the batch template.

And voila! The new batch will automatically include the same data entry fields and setup. Not only will this save you time, but you'll also strengthen your consistency by reducing the likelihood of potential data entry errors the second time around. 

As a reminder, if you'll be using the same data as well, rather than just identical fields, take advantage of recurring batches, which Doug Clinton nicely featured in a recent blog post.