Read the frequently asked questions (FAQ)

This page covers some of the common questions around the setup of your CCH iFirm system.

Export from your previous system

I don't know how to export the data from my old system.
Many software packages will have an export function. However, if you cannot find it you may need to contact your previous supplier for assistance on how to export data from their system.
Will exporting the data affect whether I can get support from my previous supplier?
If you have a license to get support from your previous supplier, they cannot deny you support during this process.
Can I get the same fields in CCH iFirm as I had in my old system?
Wolters Kluwer has a list of fields that you can import into CCH iFirm. If the field you want is not on our list, you can create dynamic fields in CCH iFirm and manually enter the data. There are a range of dynamic field options.
Will my data be deleted from my old system?
No. Think of the process as a copy and paste rather than a cut and paste. No data is removed from your old system, only copied and entered into CCH iFirm.

Why is this such a big deal?
The information that is contained in the .csv file is the backbone of your business - your client data and records. We need to ensure that this is copied across correctly so you can get up and running with CCH iFirm as swiftly and easily as possible.
Can Wolters Kluwer export my data for me?
No, Wolters Kluwer cannot perform this task for you. We cannot access your system for liability reasons, nor can we contact your previous supplier for assistance if there is an issue.
My data looks nothing like your Web site says it should!
Don't worry, often systems export data in a way that is not immediately compatible with CCH iFirm. It just takes a bit of cleaning up to get it into a .csv format. See our guide for preparing a .csv file for details on how to do this.
How do I prepare the .csv file?
Please see our guide for preparing a .csv file for this process.
How do I know my .csv file has been created correctly?
After you have prepared your .csv, upload it to your CCH iFirm site to check how the data will import.
I've loaded my .csv into my CCH iFirm site and it keeps returning errors.
You will continue to get an error message until all the errors have been resolved. Go back to your .csv file, make the necessary amendments and then re-import your .csv file. Please see our guide for preparing a .csv file for tips on how to avoid issues.

What is the difference between Setup and Activation?
Setup is when you initially get CCH iFirm up and running. This involves the import of client contact data (contacts.csv) and setting up all the settings and features of your CCH iFirm module(s). We will walk you through what specific tasks you will need to do to set up each module in your training sessions and you can find more information in the Help Centre.
Activation is the introduction of a new module when you already have CCH iFirm setup. This mainly happens on Wolters Kluwer's end of things.
How long will the process take?
If your .csv is in the correct format, your contacts can be imported into CCH iFirm in a matter of minutes.
What will happen if my .csv is not prepared properly?
If your .csv is not prepared properly, the import into CCH iFirm will not be successful. Please submit a support ticket at support.cch.com/oss/canada if you need help preparing your .csv.
Will I be able to use my computer while I import my .csv into CCH iFirm?
Yes. Because CCH iFirm is cloud-based, you can carry on working as normal in other applications while the import is underway.

How do I use CCH iFirm?
Read the Learn about CCH iFirm page in this Help Centre. You will need to attend training to learn how to get the most out of CCH iFirm and its modules. We will offer blended training through a combination of methods, including eLearning, webinars and one-on-one consulting, depending on the modules that have been purchased.
Do I have to attend training?
No, but we strongly recommend you do. Without properly learning to use CCH iFirm, you may not get the most out of it.
Can I do the training all in one day?
Training is structured so that you can complete the required tasks in between sessions. We also find that regardless of the simplicity of our system or the technical level of trainees, the task of learning a new system is a process that needs time to be absorbed properly - training all in one day is an information overload. If there are multiple training sessions, we do not deliver all modules in one day.
I need to reschedule training.
If you need to reschedule your training for any reason, please contact your Implementation Manager to organize new dates and times for training.
Can I do additional training?
After you have completed your initial training that comes with implementation of CCH iFirm (and its modules) you can purchase additional training sessions. You can choose to have these sessions as one-on-one or in a group Webinar.