Loading navigation...
Unify Data
Logo
Types of Transformations
Logo
Replace Value

Replace Value

Logo

4 mins READ

The Replace Value transformation is a powerful tool that swaps out field values based on conditions you define. This simple yet versatile function helps clean data, standardize formats, and handle missing values—solving common data quality challenges with minimal effort.

Image
Image

Why Use Replace Value?

  • Clean Messy Data - Replace incorrect values with accurate alternatives

  • Handle Missing Data - Substitute null values with meaningful defaults

  • Standardize Information - Create consistency across varied data sources

  • Fix Known Errors - Automatically correct recurring issues in your datasets

Thumbnail

Tip

Before implementing replacements, analyze a sample of your data to identify patterns of inconsistency or quality issues that need addressing.

How to Apply Replace Value?

  1. Navigate to your field and click "+New Transformation"

  2. Select "Replace Value" from the transformation menu

  3. Configure your replacement options (see below)

  4. Preview the results with test data

  5. Click "Save" to apply the transformation

    Image
    Image

Configuration Options

  • Conditional Value The new value that will appear in your data when conditions are met.

    Examples:

    • Replace missing product categories with "Uncategorized"

    • Standardize "N/A", "n.a.", and "not applicable" to "Not Applicable"

    • Convert old product codes to new format (e.g., "PRD-001" to "PRODUCT-001")

  • Filtering Criterion The condition that triggers the replacement to occur.

    Image
    Image

    Common Criteria:

    • IS NOT PRESENT - Target empty or missing values

    • EQUALS - Replace exact matches only

    • CONTAINS - Replace values that include specific text

    • MATCHES PATTERN - Replace values matching a regex pattern

Real-World Examples

Scenario

Filter Criterion

Conditional Value

Result

Fix incomplete phone numbers

LENGTH LESS THAN 10

"Invalid Phone"

Identify problematic contact data

Standardize state codes

EQUALS "California"

"CA"

Normalize location data

Handle missing names

IS NULL

"Anonymous User"

Ensure no blank name fields

Correct typos

EQUALS "Neew York"

"New York"

Fix common data entry errors

Best Practices

  • Start Simple - Begin with the most common issues before addressing edge cases.

  • Document Changes - Keep a record of all replacements for future reference.

  • Test Thoroughly - Verify replacements work correctly with diverse test data.

  • Consider Impacts - Ensure downstream processes can handle your standardized values.

FAQs

Can I replace only part of a field value?

The standard Replace Value transformation replaces the entire field. For partial replacements, use the Extract Text transformation.

What happens when multiple replacement rules match?

Transformations are applied in sequence order. Earlier replacements will remove conditions for later rules, so order matters.

Can I use complex conditions for replacements?

Yes, we support advanced filtering with logical operators (AND, OR, NOT) and pattern matching.

How can I preserve original values?

Clone the field before applying replacements, or use a dedicated audit table to track changes.