Using integration messages WebSphere Commerce can communicate with a fulfillment center system. This allows a Site Administrator to stay informed about the availability of products they are offering to customers. The following scenarios illustrate the way a fulfillment center system and the WebSphere Commerce system can work together by communicating using integration messages.
Example 1 - Expected inventory and backorders
A fulfillment center system finds the inventory level of an item is low. It orders more inventory from a vendor and uses the Create_WCS_ExpectedInventoryRecord XML message to report the expected receipt of new stock to WebSphere Commerce.
WebSphere Commerce can continue to offer that item for sale, even if the inventory level is low, by allowing backorders based on the expected receipt of more stock. WebSphere Commerce sends a Response_WCS_ExpectedInvRecord message in response that includes a WCSRaDetailID parameter.
The fulfillment center notes this WCSRaDetailID parameter. When the new shipment arrives, the fulfillment center sends the Create_WCS_InventoryReceipt XML message including the WCSRaDetailID parameter for reference. If there is no WCSRaDetailID associated with the new stock, the WCSRaDetailID can be omitted.
Example 2 - Inventory update
The staff at the fulfillment center discovers a discrepancy between an inventory level recorded in the system and the actual inventory present during a physical inventory count. The fulfillment center can use the Update_WCS_InventoryReceipt XML message to inform WebSphere Commerce of the discrepancy.
WebSphere Commerce updates the recorded inventory levels accordingly and responds with the Response_WCS_UpdateInvReceipt message.
Example 3 - Order fulfillment
To fulfill an order, the fulfillment center sends the Create_WCS_PickBatch XML message to WebSphere Commerce, initiating the fulfillment process.
WebSphere Commerce sends a response message including a PickBatchID, grouping together a list of "ready to ship" items.
The fulfillment center sends the Inquire_WCS_PickPackListDetail XML message to request pick ticket and packing list details, as well as other shipping information.
WebSphere Commerce responds with a list of what to pick and pack.
The fulfillment center prepares the shipment and sends it to a customer, optionally informing WebSphere Commerce of the shipment with the Create_WCS_ShipmentConfirmation XML message. The fulfillment may also inform the customer of the shipment with an e-mail.