Create a project

Introduction

When you log in in the platform, go to the 'Optimize' module:

In this module you can create projects that will process a list of locations and give a result for each of them. 
Two types of project are available:

• Hotspot projects: starting from a list of locations or a saved simulation, you can test the opening of new locations in batch.
• Reduction projects: from your existing locations or a saved simulation, you can test the closure of locations in batch and obtain the results directly in a summary table.

On the right hand side via the map layer button, you can choose to visualize map layers. The map layer 'Locations' will show the test locations on the map, the other map layers are identical to the 'Marketing Efforts' and 'Location Planning' module.

Create an optimize exercise 

Step 1: Start the exercise

• Press the ‘New’ button and then ‘Hotspot exercise’

• Fill in the name of the project, enter a description (optional) and click on 'Next'

Step 2:

• Choose the baseline period  or a simulation on which the optimization calculation will be based, and click  on 'Next'

Step 3: At this stage, you have two options:

• NEW! The option of using a predefined dataset, if one is available on your platform or in your country. These pre-configured datasets give you direct access to a list of relevant locations to test. In addition, you can define a buffer zone around the locations in your network by selecting the ‘Min. distance to own locations (m)’ option. This feature allows you to exclude potential locations within this zone, ensuring a more targeted analysis and avoiding cannibalization. 
  
  
   
• You also have the option to start with your own dataset by providing a list of locations for testing in batch. To do this, download the provided Excel template and follow the step-by-step instructions in the article below to prepare your list of locations. 
  
  

Go to step 2: Prepare the list of locations

Create a reduction exercise 

Step 1: Start the exercise

• Press the ‘New’ button and then ‘Optimal Reduction’
  
  
   
• Fill in the name of the project, enter a description (optional) and click on 'Next'
  
  

Step 2:

• Choose the baseline period  or a simulation (the network on which you want to test the new locations) and click on 'Next'
  
  

Step 3:

Select the locations you wish to test as closures in the table, by clicking in the box in front of their name.

You can also select locations directly on the map by clicking on their logo, then on the little purple arrow above it to move on to the next. This method offers a more visual approach, but can be laborious.

Step 4: Once you have made your choice, you can launch the calculation of the reduction test by clicking on the orange button on the right. This corresponds to step 3 in the article Import the file and launch the calculation.

You can then move on to the next article on validating the results.