The purpose of this article is to provide you with a guide to get started with DotActiv Viewer as quickly as possible once you’ve downloaded the software.
Applicable Products: DotActiv Viewer
It is important to note that the purpose of this DotActiv edition is for viewing only which allows non-production users to view DotActiv software files and reports in the software itself. This edition also allows them to make use of basic and advanced reporting options based on existing data either in the database or a DotActiv file import.
Clients can request access to DotActiv Viewer through two primary channels:
Landing Page: DotActiv Viewer Information
Access Form: DotActiv Viewer Access Request
1. Complete 8 Step Integration Process
DotActiv Viewer comes with the option for an integrated database. This allows for a seamless flow of data to and from your software which saves time and improves accuracy.
We follow an 8-step database integration process which you can read about here.
It is important to note that this is highly dependant on the user’s preferences and a database might already be set up. Please note that a database is required in order to setup the report approval workflow. If you do not have a database, kindly reach out to your Operations Manager.
2. View Any Existing Clustering Exercises/ Plans
At DotActiv, we strongly recommend conducting category-based clustering exercises to cater to your store-specific target market more effectively.
- View any existing cluster plans on the database
With DotActiv View, you have access to all the existing cluster plans that are saved on your database using the Cluster Maintenance and Optimizer tools found in the Clustering tab. You can learn about opening an existing cluster plan in Cluster Maintenance and Cluster Optimizer here.
3. View Existing Assortment Plans
Assortment planning is a vital step in optimising shelf space because it ensures that you are offering the correct mix of items in each product category to satisfy the wants and needs of your shoppers.
- View any existing assortment plans on the database
This step involves opening existing product assortment plans that are saved on the database. You can learn more about the importance of assortment planning for your stores here. You can then view existing assortment plans using Range Maintenance here and Range Optimizer here.
4. Open and Analyse Clustered Data-Driven Planograms
- Open a DotActiv .flp file
You can open existing planogram files in the DotActiv Viewer software. The exact steps to achieve this are explained below.
- Use various space planning tools to analyse planograms
- The Highlights Function
The highlights function is used to apply colour to your planogram to emphasize specific attributes on your planogram. Learn more about how to apply the highlights function here.
2. The Planogram Analyzer
The planogram analyzer enables you to measure how complete your planogram is while you space plan. It includes a list of criteria to help you improve the planogram before finalization and sign-off. You can read about how to use the planogram analyzer here.
Merchandising is another important factor to consider when building your planograms. This is where your merchandising principles, techniques, strategies and consumer decision tree are considered as this will determine your product flow. Place your products on your planogram accordingly.
Once your planogram is complete you can save it and print it to PDF to be shared with your colleagues.
5. Reporting
DotActiv Viewer comes standard with planogram reporting which includes 23 different reports used to report on the data on your planogram. Each of these reports has its own focus points on which you can analyze and review certain data related to the planogram.
- Basic Shelf Plan Reporting
The function of each report is discussed in more detail in this blog post here.
- Basic Foor Plan Reporting
- Advanced Analytical Reporting
This includes reports that require a database, such as a Demand Report, Availability Report, Shelf Congestion Report, Product Performance Report, Cross Merchandising Report, Cluster Report and Custom Report