InServiceNow Import Sets,coalescingis the process ofmatching existing recordsto avoid duplicate entries when importing data.Conditional coalesceis the only method that allows using ascriptto determine if records should be updated or inserted.

Single-field Coalesce (Incorrect)

Usesone fieldto determine if a record exists.

If a match is found, the record isupdated; otherwise, a new record is created.

Example: Usingemailas a coalesce field when importing user data.

Multiple-field Coalesce (Incorrect)

Usesmultiple fieldsto find a match.

If all specified fields match, the record isupdated. Otherwise, a new record is created.

Example: MatchingFirst Name + Last Name + Email.

No Coalesce (Incorrect)

Every import creates anew record, regardless of whether a similar record exists.

Conditional Coalesce (Correct)

Allows using ascript to define custom logicfor identifying records to update.

This isthe only coalescing method that supports scripting.

Example:

A script can check if eitheremailoremployee IDexists, andif neither exist, create a new record.

Types of Coalescing in Import Sets:

Understanding Coalesce in Import Sets

Import Set Coalescing

Conditional Coalesce Scripting

Using Conditional Coalesce

References from ServiceNow CSA Documentation: