Cue...the 4$ TV's

In uploading data, quicker is not always better. It may be the mechanism to create big problems fast. My employer was so excited about getting Walmart.com to the same level as our Amazon.com, that there was pressure to build a 10,000-listing database quickly. We started out with two sets of eyes approving prices, parts, and skus. Breakeven points and profit margins were set for each item and inventory came directly from our datafile from the distributor. Although hesitant, I was asked to upload a large file and turn it on. With instructions that we would fix each item error as it came up.

With laughter, I can now say that when the orders and questions about the 4$ televisions started coming non-stop, that we were a little perplexed. I ran to the front to kill the offending listing. We did not even sell televisions. With my investigators cap, I set to work to see what the issue was with the online store. Low and behold, I found that the UPC code for a Thetford floor flange had been uploaded by another seller onto walmart.com as a television. With bulk uploads, Walmart.com uses UPC codes to match products on their site.

While my data was correct, walmart.com had accepted another product with a false UPC code as a television. Thus, everyone selling this toilet part appeared on Walmart.com as selling the television. Lesson learned. When uploading in bulk, choose to keep a price really high like, $9999.99 and set inventory, or set your price and keep inventory at zero. Proofread each and every listing before you turn it on.