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How to convert STRING to UNIX Timestamp using scenario

Updated

One of the most frustrating situations is realizing that the data type of a customer attribute isn't suitable for the operation you need to perform. Storing values as string can be problematic when:

  • You want to use the attribute in mathematical operations (expressions).
  • You expect it to behave correctly in date filters in Analytics or campaigns.

This guide shows a workaround using a scenario "Set attribute" node. Instead of changing the original attribute in place, you will:

  • Read the original, misformatted string attribute.
  • Convert it to a UNIX timestamp via Jinja.
  • Store the result in a new customer attribute.

Workaround via Scenario "Set attribute" node

We'll not change the existing attribute directly. Instead, we'll create a new customer attribute that holds the converted UNIX timestamp.

Step by step

  1. Create a scenario

    • Use your preferred trigger (for example, NOW).
    • Add a Condition node to target the customer profiles you want to convert.
    • After the condition, add a Set attribute node.

  2. Create the new attribute

    • In the Set attribute node, type the name of the new customer attribute.
      • A typical pattern is to reuse the original name with a suffix, for example:
        date_of_birth_converted

    • Click the + icon to create it.

  3. Configure the value with Jinja

    • Set Data type = Number in the Set attribute node.

    • In the "Value" field, use Jinja to convert the original string attribute to a UNIX timestamp. For example:

      {{ customer.date_of_birth | to_timestamp }}
    • Next:
      • References the original attribute customer.date_of_birth.

      • Uses the to_timestamp filter to convert it to a UNIX timestamp (numeric).

  4. Run the scenario and verify

    • Start the scenario and let it process the targeted customers.
    • Open one of the affected customer profiles and confirm that the new attribute (for example date_of_birth_converted) has been populated with a numeric UNIX value.

  5. Finalize in Data Manager

    • Go to Data management → Customer properties.
    • Locate the new converted attribute.
    • Set its type to Date time so it behaves correctly in:
      • date filters (Analytics, campaigns)

      • expressions that expect a date/time value

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