---
title: "Getting Started with Related Data in Mapp Engage"
slug: "getting-started-with-related-data-in-mapp-engage"
updated: 2026-01-09T14:19:16Z
published: 2026-01-09T14:19:16Z
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.mapp.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Getting Started with Related Data in Mapp Engage

## Introduction

Related Data in Mapp Engage allows users to store and manage multiple pieces of information about contacts in a structured and efficient way. Unlike contact profile attributes that store only a single value per contact, Related Data sets can contain extensive information tied to unique identifiers such as or Contact ID. This enables advanced customer communication, segmentation, and personalization.

> [!TIP]
> ![](https://cdn.document360.io/554b9b98-6720-4d8b-9919-c7b203d72648/Images/Documentation/grafik(33).png)
> 
> Looking for a structured learning path?
> 
> Learn step by step in our Academy Course: [Mapp Engage - Related Data](https://academy.mapp.com/catalog/courses/4888782).

---

### Benefits of Related Data

- Store large amounts of structured data efficiently.
- Use advanced segmentation based on past interactions.
- Personalize messages dynamically using stored data.
- Maintain product catalogs and purchase history for better targeting.
- Establish relationships between different data sets for improved insights.

## Understanding Related Data Sets

A **Related Data Set** is a table that can be linked to a profile attribute (e.g., User ID) or exist independently. These sets allow for:

- Storing multiple data points about a contact (e.g., purchase history, preferences).
- Connecting data for more personalized messaging.
- Automating data-driven decision-making in marketing campaigns.

### Linked vs. Unlinked Related Data Sets

- **Linked Data Sets**: Associated directly with an attribute (e.g., 'Purchase History' tied to a 'User ID'). These allow for easier data access and insertion into messages.
- **Unlinked Data Sets**: Exist independently and require additional information to reference data within messages or segmentation.

### Unique vs. Non-Unique Data Sets

- **Unique Data Sets**: Each record is distinct, such as a product catalog where each product has a unique ID.
- **Non-Unique Data Sets**: Allow multiple entries per key, such as a purchase history where one customer can have many purchase records.

## Setting Up Related Data in Mapp Engage

### Prerequisites

- **Ensure Related Data is enabled** in your Mapp Engage account. Contact your Account Manager if necessary.
- **Obtain the necessary permissions** to view and modify Related Data Sets.

### Creating & Populating Data Sets

- **Manual Import**: Upload CSV files with related data.
- **Automated Import**: Set up a recurring automation for data import.
- **Whiteboard Import**: Use workflows to dynamically update data sets.

## Using Related Data in Mapp Engage

### In Segmentation Builder

- Use Related Data to filter audiences based on past interactions.
- Example: Target users who purchased a tent in the last 6 months.
- Use Case: [Target Audiences with Relevant Products](/v1/docs/target-audiences-with-relevant-products)

### Inserting Related Data into Messages

- Use placeholders to insert personalized data into messages.
- Example: Include product images and descriptions in emails based on past purchases.
- Use Case: [Integrate Local Store Promotions in Your Regular Campaigns](/v1/docs/integrate-local-store-promotions-in-your-regular-campaigns)

#### Example: Using a Product Catalog in Campaigns

Imagine you have a **Product Catalog** stored as a Related Data Set, where each product is identified by a unique **Product ID**. This structured data allows for seamless integration into marketing campaigns. For instance, if a customer (d.ocustom@e.com) has an item in their wishlist for a while, you can dynamically insert the product's **image, name, and description** into an email. This enhances personalization and increases the likelihood of purchase.

![](https://cdn.document360.io/554b9b98-6720-4d8b-9919-c7b203d72648/Images/Documentation/e758c2b7-2083-4614-ab73-69b400758d0f.png)

### Cross-Table Queries

- Create data views to link multiple Related Data Sets.
- Example: Retrieve product details from a 'Products' data set using IDs from a 'Purchase History' data set.
- More information: [Create Data Views for Cross-table Related Data Queries](/v1/docs/create-data-views-for-cross-table-related-data-queries)

## Next Steps

- Explore the documentation on creating data structures.
- Set up sample data imports to test functionalities.
- Experiment with Related Data in segmentation and personalization to maximize engagement.

A unique identifier automatically assigned by Mapp Engage when a new contact is added to the system.

- The **Contact ID** cannot be changed or edited.
- In some parts of Mapp Cloud, this identifier may also be referred to as **User ID**, but both terms describe the same concept.
- You can find the Contact ID by going to *Audience > Contact Management > All Contacts* and checking the ID column.

## Related

- [Related Data: Overview](/related-data-overview-window.md)
- [Structure of XML and CSV Files (Related Data)](/structure-of-xml-and-csv-files-related-data.md)
- [Personalization with Related Data](/personalization-with-related-data.md)
- [How- To ](/related-data-how-to.md)
