Minimum Version Required: 24.01
Pre-Conditions
Important Rules
1. Data Consistency Rule:
There should never be a situation where a Product has a GlobalProductID but its corresponding Brand’s GlobalBrandID is NULL.
If such a case is identified, submit a ticket to support, as it indicates a potential issue.
2. Matching Logic:
Matches are made when either the Supplier Product Numberor the Carrier UPC aligns between Local Products and dsdlink Global Products.
Key Rules for Auto-Linking
1. Auto-linking relies on either SPN or Carrier UPC for matching.
2. When a match is found:
The system sets the Local Products.GlobalProductID.
If the Local Brand’s GlobalBrandID is NULL, it is also set automatically.
3. A nightly routine runs to check and update links.
Steps
How to Auto-Link Local Products to dsdlink Global Products
This document explains the process and requirements for auto-linking Local Products to dsdlink Global Products. It ensures data consistency, improves product information quality, and identifies potential issues for resolution.
Overview of Auto-Linking
The auto-linking process establishes connections between Local Products and dsdlink Global Products by matching key identifiers. This process is essential for maintaining clean and reliable data when using platforms like dsdlink Retailer and Distributor Ordering, BEES, Connect Distributor Reporting in dsdlink, and many other areas of Encompass.
Steps for Auto-Linking:
1. Link One Product Per BrandFamily
Manually link one product within each BrandFamily. This step:
- Sets the BrandFamilies.GlobalSupplierID and BrandFamilies.GlobalBrandFamilyID.
- Tells the system to check under those global suppliers for matching records.
2. Verify and Update Product Data
Ensure that the remaining products in the BrandFamily meet one of the following criteria:
1. A valid Supplier Product Number (SPN) is assigned.
2. A valid Carrier UPC is assigned.
Note: Ensure data accuracy for better auto-linking outcomes.
3. Nightly Auto-Linking Routine
The system runs nightly to:
1. Match Local Products with dsdlink Global Products using:
Local Products.SupplierProductNum with dsdlink Products.SupplierProductNum.
Products.CarrierUPC with dsdlink Products.CarrierUPC.
2. Set the following upon a successful match:
Local Products.GlobalProductID
Local Brands.GlobalBrandID, if it is currently NULL.
Fields And Definitions
1. Supplier Product Number (SPN): A unique number assigned by the supplier/manufacturer.
2. Carrier UPC: Universal Product Code.
3. Global Product ID: The ID assigned to a product in the dsdlink global database.
4. Global Brand ID: The ID assigned to a brand in the dsdlink global database.
5. Local Brand: The brand within an Encompass ECP site.
6. Local Product: The product within an Encompass ECP site.
Best Practices
1. Maintain Clean Data: Regularly audit product data to ensure accurate SPNs and Carrier UPCs.
2. Monitor Linking Updates: Verify that expected matches are made when going through the product catalog.
3. Report Unexpected Behavior to Support: Identify and report any inconsistencies in GlobalProductID and GlobalBrandID assignments.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
1. Missing SPNs or Carrier UPCs: Products without these identifiers cannot be auto-linked and would otherwise need to be manually set via Product Manager.
2. Mismatch Between Data Sets: Ensure that local product data is up-to-date and accurate. dsdlink is overseen by support, reach out for any inaccuracies that can't be corrected via Product Manager.
3. Data Gaps: Report cases where:
Products.GlobalProductID is set but the Brands.GlobalBrandID is NULL.
Conclusion:
By following this guide, users can optimize the auto-linking process, ensure data integrity, and maintain clean product information across Local and Global systems.