How to auto-create Jira tickets from an Excel file using Rovo Chat
Platform Notice: Cloud Only - This article only applies to Atlassian apps on the cloud platform.
Summary
This article explains how to use Atlassian Rovo Chat's /create-work-items skill alongside an uploaded Excel (.xlsx) file to generate multiple Jira work items based on spreadsheet data.
Important
This workflow combines Rovo Chat's file upload capability with the /create-work-items skill. Because Rovo is AI-powered, results may vary - always review generated work items carefully before creating them. Some fields may not yet be supported.
Beta AI features must be enabled by your organization admin
Solution
Step 1: Prepare Your Excel File
Structure your Excel file with clear column headers that map directly to Jira fields.
Example Structure:
Summary,Description,Assignee,Priority,Issue Type,Labels,Due Date
Fix login bug,Users unable to log in via SSO,user1@company.com,High,Bug,backend,2026-06-01
Update FAQ page,Refresh FAQ with new product info,user2@company.com,Medium,Task,docs,2026-06-15Best Practices:
Headers: Use recognizable Jira field names as column headers (e.g., Summary, Description, Priority).
Required Fields: Ensure the Summary column is populated for every row.
Assignees: Use full email addresses or exact display names.
Values: Match Priority and Issue Type values to those available in your specific Jira project.
Row count: Keep batches small. Rovo's bulk create tool supports up to 10 work items at a time, so limit your file to 10 rows per batch for reliable results.
Step 2: Open Rovo Chat
Log in to your Jira instance.
Select Ask Rovo in the top navigation bar, or open Chat from the App Switcher.
Step 3: Attach the Excel File
In the Rovo Chat input area, select the + (plus) icon at the bottom left of the chat window.
Select Upload a file.
Upload your prepared
.xlsx(or.xls/.csv) file.
Step 4: Provide the Prompt
Enter the /create-work-items command followed by your instructions. For example:
/create-work-items Based on the attached Excel file, create work items in project [YOUR-PROJECT-KEY]. Map the columns as follows: 'Summary' → Summary, 'Description' → Description, 'Assignee' → Assignee, 'Priority' → Priority, 'Issue Type' → Work Type.Tips:
Always specify the target Jira space (project key).
Be explicit about column-to-field mapping.
If your file has more than 10 rows, process it in separate batches.
Step 5: Review and Create
Rovo will display a list of suggested work items with summaries and descriptions in the chat window.
Select Preview to open the AI-powered canvas for a more detailed view.
Edit fields directly in the canvas, or continue the chat to ask Rovo for changes (e.g., "make the descriptions more concise" or "add acceptance criteria").
When you're satisfied, select Create all to add the work items to your Jira space.
Rovo will confirm creation and provide links to each newly created work item.
Note
Some fields may not yet be supported in the canvas editing experience. Review all fields for accuracy before creating.
Known Limitations
Batch Size: It is recommended to process smaller batches (e.g., 10 rows maximum) at a time to ensure stability.
Field support: Not all Jira fields are supported in the create flow. Asset fields are not supported, and Parent field support is limited.
Projects with complex configurations: Projects with very large or complex field configurations may experience timeouts.
AI variability: Rovo uses AI to interpret your file and prompt. Results may vary depending on file structure, prompt clarity, and project configuration. Always review suggestions before creating.
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