With half of 2024 done, DotActiv continues to be busy, adding new articles and updating multiple others on the DotActiv PowerBase. During June, we updated four based on recent software updates. We also updated three to improve the content and clarify any processes in each article.
Our vision for the DotActiv PowerBase is to increase knowledge and skills and bridge any gap for software clients and others interested in using our software. If you want to read past articles on what we added or updated on the DotActiv PowerBase, you can browse those PowerBase summaries. You can also read why we introduced the DotActiv PowerBase.
Updated articles on the DotActiv PowerBase
How To Analyse The Cluster Optimizer Results
The generated clusters grid is the first step in analyzing clusters.
First, you must take note of the number of suggested clusters followed by checking the number of stores it has put into each cluster. Doing so eliminates the possibility of having a cluster for a small number of stores.
You will then have a look at the store sizes within the clusters. That helps you assess the store profiles that tie in with the region. The ability to see which stores in a region fall into a specific cluster allows you to classify them as premium, mid-tier, economy, or low-economy stores.
Lastly, the generated clusters grid also provides the number of drops (NOD) suggested per cluster. It allows you to pre-analyze the planograms you need to build or assign to that cluster.
We recently updated this article to include the section “How To Analyse The Impact Via The Cluster ADDM And Clusters Changes Report” and, more specifically, the ADDM report.
Learn more about how you can analyze the results when running the Cluster Optimizer within the DotActiv software.
How To Create A New Range Plan In Range Optimizer
DotActiv’s Range Optimizer function optimizes a range based on certain variables or rules. The Range Optimizer function applies rules to a range and the DotActiv software can apply logic to suggest a range. This function is also used when creating a new range.
Our article on creating a new range plan has recently changed since we added some sustainability features to the Range Optimizer function within the DotActiv software.
Based on the latest software release, you can now prioritize sustainability for your transfer of demand options. This toggle will adjust the logic used when shortlisting options for a product’s transfer of demand. If applied, and there are sustainable products available to include, the software will make those product replacement suggestions.
We also added a “Go Green” template to the Range Optimizer, which focuses on sustainability-prioritized categories and enables you to select a template that includes rules for sustainability.
How To Read The Range Optimizer Results Grid
Once you’ve created a new range plan within the Range Optimizer function, our Range Optimizer results grid appears. In this grid, you can make changes to your range.
We recently updated this article to reflect the changes made to the software. That includes additional context on how to incorporate sustainability into your ranging process.
Learn how to read the Range Optimizer results grid found in the DotActiv software.
Data Prerequisites When Building A Planogram
There are data prerequisites you must consider when creating data-driven planograms in the DotActiv software.
In this article, we have included two more considerations related to sustainability.
The first is to use forward share to align with a sustainability strategy regarding sustainable brands.
There is also a forward share graph tool that you can use to give buyers a visual representation of how the brands appear on the planogram. Forward share ensures brands receive the space they deserve on the shelf. The more you open up to high sellers, the more it will sell due to the visibility you have given the product.
The second important consideration is the allocation of space for sustainable brands. It is crucial to place your products/brands strategically to ensure you create the most optimal layout.
Not sure what data is required to build a planogram? Don’t worry! We explore all the prerequisites in more detail.
How To Analyse Data On Your Planogram
The DotActiv software has various features that make analyzing data extremely easy. Amongst these are the Planogram Analyzer function, Days of Supply alignment, Planogram Reports, and Highlights.
To analyze planograms further within the DotActiv software, we added a new feature with the latest software update to our Highlights section. The new criterion selection fields are in alignment with our sustainability initiative.
These options include Compostable / Biodegradable, Imported, Is Refill, Locally Produced, Made Using Recycled Material, Organic-Certified, Overpackaging %, Plastic Grade, Recyclable, Recycled Materials %, Reusable, Unethical Production, Unethical Production Detail, and Vegan.
You can use any of these criteria within the highlight feature.
Read more about the different methods of analyzing data on a planogram built using the DotActiv software.
How To Create A Planogram By Using Planogram Automation
Planogram automation allows you to auto-generate a planogram through set criteria and specified products. Before using this function, you need to create a gondola.
Based on the latest software release, we updated our article.
Sustainability has now been included as a factor, ensuring that the layout meets performance criteria and aligns with sustainable product selections. This integration helps you optimize shelf space while promoting economic, social, and environmental sustainability and reducing your carbon footprint.
We have updated our article to reflect these changes. Read our article to learn more about the planogram automation function and how to use it.
How To Format And Import Product Images
Did you know it's critical to ensure your images are in the correct format before importing them into the DotActiv software?
We recently added a note to this article that explains that you do not have to format the images to include '.1' as this will not import.
The correct format will be 'barcode.png'. That means when you import an image named 'barcode.png' and select the image type as front image, the software will automatically format it to 'barcode.1'.
Do you want to import new product images or update those you have with new ones? Read our article to learn more about the steps you must follow when formatting images in the DotActiv software.
Articles With Missing Images
The team is working tirelessly to update all the articles that are currently missing images and software GIFs. Please continue to comment on any PowerBase articles that need images added.
Conclusion
The DotActiv PowerBase answers specific questions about making the most of DotActiv’s products and services.
If you find an article that doesn’t answer a question to your satisfaction, please leave a comment. It’s entirely anonymous and will help us to help you get the answers you deserve.
Are you currently not a DotActiv client but want to learn more about how DotActiv software can help your business increase sales while pleasing your customers? Book a software demo with a DotActiv expert to see our software in action. You can also browse our various DotActiv software and service options.
