Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import is a specialized add-on that allows you to quickly import contact details from any spreadsheet application into your directory in bulk. This extension saves valuable time by ensuring quick and accurate access to all your data in an organized fashion. High-volume directories can migrate thousands of entries with minimal manual effort.
WPExclusive members get access to CSV Import as part of a full plugin and theme library — plans from $9.99/month. See the full Connections collection →
What Is Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import?
Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import is developed by Connections and is a networking extension for WordPress. It belongs to the networking category on WPExclusive, alongside other tools for professional directory management.
The extension solves the problem of manual data entry for large-scale directories. It is designed for site owners who need to move contact lists from Excel, Google Sheets, or other database exports directly into the WordPress environment.
Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import Features
The feature set is built around a simplified three-step workflow that automates the mapping of complex data fields.
Automated Data Mapping
CSV Import features auto-mapping of column and field headers to reduce setup time. The extension includes auto entry type determination, automatically distinguishing between individual and organization entries based on your data. It also includes a sample Excel spreadsheet to ensure your headers match the expected field requirements for a successful networking directory import.
Advanced Category Support
The plugin supports multiple category imports, allowing entries to be assigned to several directory branches simultaneously. It handles category delimiters like commas or semi-colons and includes logic to prevent the “Uncategorized” tag from being applied incorrectly. Users can also specify custom category orders and parent-child relationships during the bulk process.
Performance and Scalability
Recent updates have introduced asynchronous processing to improve reliability when importing large files. By iterating through JSON chunks instead of relying on a single large request, the extension avoids server timeouts. This makes it possible to import tens, hundreds, or even thousands of entries without crashing the WordPress backend.
Pricing
Check current pricing on the CSV Import sales page — WPExclusive members access it as part of their plan.
| Plan | Price | Sites | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| WPExclusive Membership | From $9.99/month | Unlimited | CSV Import + full library |
For developers managing multiple sites, a WPExclusive membership covers CSV Import plus hundreds of other plugins and themes — usually less than one premium license.
Latest Version
The current version is 2.5. The plugin receives regular updates to ensure compatibility with the latest versions of WordPress and the core Connections directory plugin. WPExclusive updates plugin files promptly after each release.
How to Install
- Download the CSV Import .zip from your WPExclusive member account
- In WordPress: Plugins → Add New → Upload Plugin
- Select the .zip and click Install Now → Activate
- Navigate to the Connections admin menu and select the Import tab.
- Upload your CSV file and use the field mapper to align your spreadsheet columns with directory fields.
Use Cases
Migrating Large Business Databases
Organizations moving from external CRMs or old directory software can use the extension for networking migrations. It handles thousands of rows, mapping varied data types like social media URLs, logos, and phone numbers in one pass.
Regular Staff Directory Updates
For large universities or corporations where staff lists change monthly, CSV Import allows administrators to update existing records. The extension verifies bio and notes indexes to ensure existing text isn’t deleted while updating other entry details.
Agencies and Developers Managing Multiple Client Sites
Agencies can standardize their directory setup process across multiple client projects. Using WPExclusive provides access to this extension and other Connections add-ons without managing dozens of individual subscriptions.
Pros and Cons
✅ Strengths
- Plug and play functionality with no complex initial configuration required.
- Detailed step-by-step directions embedded within the import UI.
- Sideloads remote images, allowing you to import photos and logos via URLs.
⚠️ Limitations
- Requires the free core Connections Business Directory plugin to be active.
- Specific field requirements like first name and last name must be met or rows are skipped.
- Developer auto-updates require an active license key. WPExclusive publishes updates manually when new versions are released.
Is Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import GPL Licensed?
Yes. Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import is distributed under the GNU General Public License (GPL), the same license that governs WordPress itself. GPL gives any user the legal right to use, study, share, and redistribute the software. This is the legal framework that makes WPExclusive’s membership model possible.
WPExclusive distributes 100% original, unmodified files — the same release the developer publishes. No injected code, no alterations, no security risks.
Get Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import on WPExclusive
WPExclusive membership starts at $9.99/month, $87/year, or $149 lifetime — giving you Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import plus every plugin and theme in the library, on unlimited sites.
Explore the full Connections collection → or browse all WordPress plugins →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import do?
Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import is a directory management plugin used to bulk upload entries. CSV Import allows users to map spreadsheet columns to specific directory fields like addresses and categories.
Is Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import free?
This is a premium extension. While the core Connections plugin is free, the CSV Import extension is available via WPExclusive in plans from $9.99/month.
What is the latest version of Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import?
The current version is 2.5. The plugin is actively maintained — WPExclusive members always receive the most current release.
How much does Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import cost?
Retail pricing varies per site license on the official site. Via WPExclusive, it is included in plans from $9.99/month.
Is it legal to use Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import via WPExclusive?
The plugin is GPL licensed, which explicitly permits redistribution. WPExclusive provides original, unmodified files — fully within GPL terms.
Can I import images with Connections Business Directory Extension CSV Import?
Yes, CSV Import supports importing photos and logos by providing a URL in the spreadsheet. The plugin automatically sideloads these images into your WordPress media library and associates them with the entry.
