Introduction
In ProdSys, distribution codes are a vital tool used to categorize how articles and product templates are distributed, particularly in scenarios that involve API integrations with web shops or other external platforms. By assigning a distribution code to each article, businesses can streamline their distribution processes, ensuring the correct items are available in their web shop or other sales channels. This article explains how to manage and configure distribution codes in ProdSys, focusing on their usage for API integrations and article management.
Purpose of Distribution Codes
The main purpose of distribution codes is to define how and where an article or product template is made available. Distribution codes are especially useful in e-commerce environments, where articles need to be categorized and distributed through a web shop. By linking articles to specific distribution channels, businesses can manage inventory visibility and availability more efficiently.
Accessing the Distribution Code Settings
To manage distribution codes in ProdSys:
Login: Begin by logging into your ProdSys account with your username and password.
Navigate to Distribution Settings: From the main menu, go to System > Settings > Article Distributions. This will open a list of all the distribution codes currently configured in the system.
Access Distribution Settings
Key Features of the Distribution Code Page
Code: The unique identifier for the distribution method. For example, "1" might represent articles available for the "Web shop," while "0" could signify "None," meaning the article is not distributed via any external channel.
Description: Provides a clear description of the distribution method. For example, "Web shop" indicates that articles with this code will be available for sale on the web shop through API integration.
How to Add a New Distribution Code
Click on the "+" Button: To create a new distribution code, click on the "+" button at the top left of the page.
Enter the Distribution Code and Description:
Code: Assign a unique numeric code to the distribution method (e.g., 2 for "Retail" or 3 for "Wholesale").
Description: Provide a brief description of the distribution method (e.g., "Retail Store" or "Third-Party Marketplace").
Save the New Distribution Code: Once you've entered all the necessary details, click Save to add the new code to your system.
Linking Distribution Codes to Articles and Product Templates
Distribution codes can be assigned to individual articles or product templates to ensure they are available in specific channels, such as your web shop. Here's how you can link distribution codes to articles:
Open the Article or Product Template: Navigate to the article or product template that needs to be distributed.
Assign the Distribution Code: From the distribution dropdown list, select the relevant code (e.g., "1 – Web shop") to ensure that the article is made available through that channel.
Save Changes: After assigning the distribution code, save the article or product template to apply the changes.
Example of Web Shop Integration
For businesses using API integrations with their web shop, the distribution code is often a critical factor in determining which products are displayed online. When an article is assigned a distribution code marked as "Web shop," the system will push that product to the web shop via the API, making it available for customers to view and purchase.
Code "1 – Web shop": Articles with this distribution code will be visible in the online store and managed through the web shop API.
Code "0 – None": Articles with this distribution code will not be available in the web shop or any other sales channel linked via API.
Best Practices for Managing Distribution Codes
Define Clear Distribution Channels: Make sure each distribution code is clearly defined and relevant to your sales strategy (e.g., separate codes for web shop, wholesale, or physical retail).
Assign Correct Codes During Article Setup: Ensure that the appropriate distribution code is assigned when setting up new articles or product templates to avoid manual updates later.
Regularly Review Distribution Codes: Periodically review and update the distribution codes to ensure that they align with your current sales and distribution channels.
Conclusion
The distribution code functionality in ProdSys is a powerful tool for managing how articles and product templates are distributed across various sales channels, including web shops through API integrations. By setting up and assigning the correct distribution codes, businesses can ensure that their inventory is properly categorized and made available to customers through the appropriate channels. Regularly updating and reviewing distribution codes will help maintain an efficient and accurate sales process.