Editing Date and Time Format

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'''Navigation:''' [[Main_Page]] > [[Settings]] > [[Advanced]] > Date and Time Format

== How to change the date and time format in your ActiveCampaign account ==

In ActiveCampaign, the ability to customize the '''date and time format''' is crucial for maintaining clarity and consistency in your account. This feature allows account administrators to set preferences for how dates and times are displayed throughout the platform, enhancing communication and ensuring that all users see information in their preferred formats. Whether you prefer a MM/DD/YYYY or a DD/MM/YYYY date format, or utilize a 12-hour or 24-hour time format, having control over these settings can improve user experience and database management.

Changing the date and time format affects several areas in your account, including:
* Campaign sent date and time
* Campaign last modified date and time
* Existing custom date fields

This article will guide you through the process of changing the date and time format in your ActiveCampaign account.

== How to access this feature ==
To access the date and time format settings, you'll need to navigate through the main settings menu. You must be an account admin to make changes.

== Step-by-step instructions ==
Follow these steps to change the date and time format:

1. Click '''Settings''' on the left menu, then select '''Advanced'''.
2. Scroll down to the '''Date Format''' box.
3. Click the option you wish to use under '''Separate by'''.
4. Select your desired date format option.
   * You have the option to create a custom date format by clicking the '''Custom date format''' option and typing your desired format into the provided field. A preview of each format will appear on the right as you click different options.
5. In the '''Time Format''' box, click the time format you want to use.
   * Similar to the date format, you can create a custom time format by clicking the '''Custom time format''' option and entering your desired format. A preview will also be available on the right side.
6. For displaying date and time together, go to the '''Date and Time (displayed together)''' box. Here, you can type a custom format in the provided field. The default format for this combined view will be listed. As you type, the preview updates automatically.
   * Note that this section is only applicable when both date and time are displayed together in your ActiveCampaign account; it does not overwrite the independent selections made for date and time.
7. Once you have made all your selections, click the '''Save Settings''' button to apply the changes.

== Configuration options and settings ==
ActiveCampaign offers several options to customize the date and time format:

* '''Separate by''': Choose how to separate the date components (e.g., slashes, dashes).
* '''Date Format''': Choose between standard formats like MM/DD/YYYY or DD/MM/YYYY.
* '''Custom date format''': Allows you to enter a specific format that suits your needs.
* '''Time Format''': Select between a 12-hour or 24-hour format.
* '''Custom time format''': Input a specific custom time format if desired.
* '''Date and Time (displayed together)''': Set a custom format for when both date and time are displayed simultaneously.

It is crucial to note:
* Custom date fields on forms will always use a YYYY-MM-DD format, regardless of your selected settings.
* When uploading contacts from a CSV file, ensure all date fields are in YYYY-MM-DD format. After uploading, the dates will display according to your chosen preferences.

== Best practices and tips ==
* Always preview your selected formats to ensure they meet your expectations before saving changes.
* Consistently use the preferred date format when entering dates manually or when importing data to maintain clarity across the account.
* Review these settings periodically, especially if your organization expands or changes its standard operating procedures regarding date and time documentation.
* It can be beneficial to communicate format changes to all account users to ensure consistency in interpretation.

== Common use cases with examples ==
1. **Campaign Reporting**: An organization using the MM/DD/YYYY format can report campaign results clearly to audiences in regions that follow this style, minimizing confusion.
2. **Imported Data**: When importing contacts from international sources, using the correct YYYY-MM-DD format will reduce the risk of date misinterpretation, ensuring all analytics are accurate.
3. **User Preferences**: Companies with global staff might choose a 24-hour clock format to accommodate users familiar with this style, leading to clearer scheduling and reporting.

== Troubleshooting ==
If you encounter issues while changing the date and time format:
* Ensure you have administrator permissions, as only account admins can make these changes.
* Double-check the formats you are entering, especially if you are using the custom options. Mistakes in the input may lead to unexpected results.
* If the format does not seem to apply, try refreshing your browser or logging out and back into your account to reset the settings.

== Related features ==
For more insights into configuring your ActiveCampaign settings, you may want to explore other related features:
* [[Settings]]
* [[Advanced]]

== FAQ ==
=== 1. Can I use a custom date format? ===
Yes, you can select the '''Custom date format''' option to input your preferred date style.

=== 2. Will changes to date format affect all users? ===
Yes, changing the format will reflect the date and time for all users within your account.

=== 3. What happens to custom date fields? ===
Custom date fields on forms will always display in a YYYY-MM-DD format, regardless of the account settings.

=== 4. Can I change the date format multiple times? ===
Yes, you can change your settings at any time as long as you have administrator access.

=== 5. How does date format affect importing contacts? ===
All date fields in your CSV file should be formatted as YYYY-MM-DD when uploading; the display will follow your preferred settings after the upload.

=== 6. What should I do if my changes do not appear? ===
Try refreshing the page or logging out and back in. Ensure you saved your settings after making changes.

=== 7. Are there any limitations on the date format options? ===
The available formats include standard configurations, but you are free to enter custom formats as needed within the confines of date and time conventions.
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