Understanding the Problem

The problem arises when trying to update a specific value within a multi-value attribute, which is typically a string of values separated by a delimiter, such as a semicolon (;) or comma (,).

For example, if we have a DE with a multi-value attribute containing the values “one;two;three;four” and we want to update the value “three” to “five”, we need to use a SQL query that can parse the string and replace the desired value.

Solution

One possible solution is to use a SQL query with a combination of string replacement and parsing functions, such as the Replace function, to update the multi-value attribute.

We can use the CHAR(59) function to replace the semicolon (;) delimiter, as SFMC does not support using the literal semicolon in SQL queries.

sql_query.sql

SELECT Replace(ATTRIB_VALUE, 'three', 'five') AS UPDATED_ATTRIB_VALUE FROM DATA_EXTENSION

The root cause of this issue is the limitation of SFMC’s SQL support for parsing and updating multi-value attributes.

Best Practices

When working with large volumes of data, it is recommended to use SQL queries instead of SSJS/AMPScript processing in Script Activities, as the latter can lead to performance issues and autokill.

Heads up: If you have a massive volume of data, you may need to split the work into multiple queries to avoid performance issues.

Checklist

Updating Multi-Value Attributes in SFMC

• Use SQL queries to update multi-value attributes
• Use the Replace function to replace specific values
• Use the CHAR(59) function to replace the semicolon (;) delimiter
• Avoid using SSJS/AMPScript processing in Script Activities for large volumes of data
• Split the work into multiple queries if you have a massive volume of data
• Test your SQL queries thoroughly to ensure the desired result

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to update multi-value attributes in SFMC?

The best way to update multi-value attributes in SFMC is to use SQL queries with a combination of string replacement and parsing functions.

Can I use SSJS/AMPScript processing in Script Activities to update multi-value attributes?

While it is possible to use SSJS/AMPScript processing in Script Activities to update multi-value attributes, it is not recommended for large volumes of data, as it can lead to performance issues and autokill.

How can I replace the semicolon (;) delimiter in a SQL query?

You can use the CHAR(59) function to replace the semicolon (;) delimiter in a SQL query.

What are the limitations of SFMC’s SQL support for parsing and updating multi-value attributes?

SFMC’s SQL support for parsing and updating multi-value attributes is limited, and it does not support using the literal semicolon in SQL queries.