This section consists of all the technical specifications and data requirements necessary for a brand to properly configure its products in the Exchange interface.
Table of Contents
Some can probably dive right in. For everyone else, this is a helpful overview.
Technical Data File Specifications
Flat File Approach
The brand catalog is created when data files and images are uploaded to the brand's preconfigured GoAnywhere directory. This is essentially a web-based simple FTP (file transfer protocol) solution to easily upload all the necessary catalog files. This method of information exchange is referred to as a "Flat File Approach".
Not just for "Flat-Earthers", this file sharing method applies to everyone!
Product Information
Before we discuss the specific product information requirements, it may be helpful to understand how the system works, and what it does with the files and data that you provide. Within GoAnywhere , the Exchange system scans all brands' file directories every 15 minutes to look for newly-uploaded files. When new files are found, the system kicks into action. Because brand catalogs are created and updated automatically by programs - not humans - it's imperative that the files and their data meet specific requirements and parameters. The filename requirements and data parameters are provided in a table organized by 'Field'. Sample files are available to download as well.
| data file | show | description | sample file (see tabs) |
|---|---|---|---|
features_brand.csv | ALL | Features that tie back to each product | DOWNLOAD SAMPLE FILE |
| products_brands.csv | ALL | Each SKU level product & attributes | DOWNLOAD SAMPLE FILE |
Product Images Requirements
The above document defined the requirements for the data files necessary. This document helps to define the naming convention and requirements for all of the catalog and product images. These images are referred to as "Media Assets".
Product Images
As you did with your catalog data files, you will also upload your catalog and product images to the appropriate directory within GoAnywhere . When the Exchange system scans GoAnywhere and finds newly-uploaded image files in the /images/inbound directory, it will kick into action to add or update the catalog with the images. Each product can have one(1) Primary/Hero Image and up to four(4) alternate product images.
Approved Show Data Categories
In order for products to be found when retailers use the Exchange search tool, each product's field attributes in the catalog data files must match the specific category, subcategory, and gender field attributes defined.
Dot those 'i's and cross those 't's. Let's make sure your data files match these fields exactly!
If you have any questions, please submit a support ticket. We're here to help.