How can I transfer my data from Basecamp to activeCollab?

To transfer your data from Basecamp to activeCollab there are two simple things that needs to be done. First you need to export your Basecamp data into a format that activeCollab will recognize, and then you need to import the same data into your installed copy of activeCollab.

To do this all you need to do is follow a few simple steps and you'll be working with your Basecamp data on activeCollab in no time.

Start by visiting our Migration page on the activeCollab website, paying particular attention to the instructions on the right. You will be asked to:

  • Log In by using the same credentials that you used when creating the account on our website (verifying you as an activeCollab license owner and authorizing you to continue).

  • Provide Your Basecamp Set-up Details such as subdomain name (instead of "mycompany.basecamphq.com, only "mycompany" will do the work), username and password. This is also the place where you can specify if you're using SSL (a secure connection) or not.

  • Upload the Basecamp XML File that you have previously downloaded from Basecamp. You will also be asked what kind of activeCollab license you will be using (Corporate or Small Biz) so that the system knows how to arrange your data and export it in a suitable format for uploading to your account later. If you are an activeCollab Corporate owner you will be able to choose how you want your To Do Lists to be exported (as Tickets or Ticket Categories). If you have chosen activeCollab Small Biz, your To Do Lists will still be imported as Checklists with related Tasks, and all your comments will be placed in proper Discussions. Once you're happy with all the settings, simply upload the XML file and click the Export button.

  • Export Data. You'll now see a progress bar showing you how long the export process will take and, after it's completed, you'll be able to download your freshly re-configured Basecamp data here.

Now that you have your Basecamp data in a suitable format, you can import it into your own installation of activeCollab. Here's how:

  • Install the activeCollab Import Module, this module is shipped with your activeCollab installation, and you will find it in the Admin > Modules area on the list of Available Modules. Just click the Install button and you will find Basecamp Importer Module enabled in your activeCollab in no time.

  • Upload the content of the exported data file on your server. The zipped file that you generated in the previous process (containing the re-configured Basecamp data) should now be unpacked and uploaded to your server, under the /import folder. Please make sure that this folder is writable.

  • Import your Basecamp data. A new icon will now appear in your activeCollab Admin in the Tools section - called the Importer Module. Visit this section and you'll be able to chose which data you want to make available in your activeCollab setup. Then simply click the Import button next to the Projects you wish to have in activeCollab and in a few moments you'll be working with all your old Basecamp data in a brand new environment!

If you have any additional questions after reading these instructions, remember that we're here to help. Just let us know if you need our assistance and we hope you'll enjoy working in activeCollab.