When distributing data, a Channel must be selected. The Channel defines the formatting for the data being sent. For example, in the screenshot below, Mackin receives data using the Default (csv) package. The resultant file for this channel is in CSV format and it contains a generic layout of columns that is acceptable to many vendors. In comparison, some vendors require a specific file format such as Excel and a specific ordering of columns.
By checking the Use Price Change Package box on the New Distribution form, the Channel's normal package (eg, Default (csv)) is overridden with the Price Change (csv) package.
For reference, the Price Change package contains the following columns:
- ISBN 13
- Product Name
- Type
- Format
- Series
- Old Price
- New Price
- Date Effective
The significant information in this package is the Old Price and New Price. No other package contains such data columns. In this way, a vendor can visualize the before and after affect of a price change. Note: If a designated product has no associated price changes, it will be skipped. In other words, a row will not be created for it in the resultant CSV file.