This is similar to the simple family example where phone numbers from one file were matched to families from another. However, while each family usually has only one home phone number, there are typically several members in each family. There are several rows in the file with duplicate FamKey numbers.Figure 1. MemberBasicInfo.csv
Using Member Keys
Notice how all of the members in the Abel family have the same FamKey. When you load the member data from the file, you can do the following:
Set the Family Key to indicate which family the member belongs to.
Use the Member Key so future imports can be linked to the correct member (such as sacraments or ministry information).
Primary and Foreign Keys
The names of the key fields in a set of related files have specific names:
Primary Key – Uniquely identifies a row. Once you use a primary key in a table, it should not display again in that file. Other files reference the primary key.
Foreign Key – Establishes a link to another row in a different table. Foreign keys in a related table reference the primary key in a main table.
In the simple family and member examples, the FamKey field is the primary key in the FamilyBasicInfo.csv file. In the FamilyHomePhones.csv and MemberBasicInfo.csv files, FamKey is the foreign key.
Tip: After reviewing this section, if you don't feel confident about how these apply to your file(s), contact PDS Support at 1-877-737-4457. Fees may apply.
