Create a Network: Upload Multiple Locations

Using a Network Definition File, users can upload a large number of locations at once.

Before doing this, users should check if they have:

  • Name of the location

  • Where the location is (Coordinates or Addresses)

  • Metadata that can be useful for filtering or analysing the network with

Note: If only having a few locations it might be easier to add them manually, see "Add a Location"

Upload Multiple Locations - Step by Step

 
 

Step 1: Download the Definition File Template

Download below one of the definition templates, this will provide an excel where users can edit and fill in the required columns depending on their preference. Choose between the below if there are Coordinates or Addresses for all locations within the network.

 

Step 2: Edit the Definition File

Load the definition file. In this file each row represents one location. For each location the below must be filled in, any Optional steps are based on user preference and aren’t a requirement to upload the network.

  1. Enter the ISO code (Country) - If locations are in Australia set code as “AUS”, if New Zealand “N18”, United States “USA”, United Kingdom “GBR”, Canada “CAN”

  2. Enter a unique name for each Location, if location names are not unique explorer will add a sequential number at the end of the location name to make it so.

  3. Provide the location for the site. Under X and Y for the Co-ordinates file, or under full Address if using the Address file. If using Co-ordinates validate the X and Y are the correct way round, if locations are in the Southern Hemisphere the Y should be negative and between 0 and -60.

  4. Define the size of the Trade Areas. If the Trade Area is not relevant for analysis then put 1 under the Primary Trade Area and leave the Secondary and Tertiary Blank.

  5. Optional - Fill in the LocationTags. If there are multiple locations that have similar traits, assign them a Tag (i.e. Open Store), separate each of the tags with a “,”.

  6. Optional - Add on Location Attributes. Numerical attributes can be used within the explorer whilst character attributes can be used in creating future tags. Both types can be checked on to appear when a location is clicked.

 

Step 3: Save as a Text File (.txt)

The Excel spreadsheet must be saved as a tab delimited text file before it can be imported into the system. To do this, when saving the definition file, under “Save as Type” select “Text (Tab Delimited)”.

 

Step 4: Upload Definition File into Explorer

  1. Select HOME in the top menu and then Create New Network. Name the network and assign it to a folder.

  2. Select “Upload a Definition File”, this will provide users with a pop up that will re-affirm the layout of the definition file. Click Choose File to Upload and select the text file.

  3. Select Upload

Optional - Ensuring Accuracy


Optionally, users can also select one of the tutorials below for an explanation on how to ensure location geocoding and trade area drive time accuracy. This involves making adjustments to the Network Definition File before uploading it into the Explorer.