In the ever-evolving landscape of retail, adaptability and innovation are key to success. Walmart, a retail giant, is no stranger to embracing change, and their latest move is no exception. The transition from the Decision Support System (DSS) to Walmart Luminate is set to redefine how the retail industry collaborates and harnesses data.
The Shift from DSS to Luminate
Walmart has decided to bid farewell to its trusted Decision Support System (DSS) while ushering in a new era with Walmart Luminate. But what does this transition entail?
DSS’s Farewell: First things first, it’s important to clarify that Retail Link is not disappearing. Walmart is only removing access to DSS for both internal and external users in the U.S. This change marks a significant shift in how data is accessed and leveraged.
Luminate’s Arrival: Luminate, the newcomer to the Walmart ecosystem, is poised to reshape the way data is utilized. It promises to offer a brighter, more collaborative future for both suppliers and Walmart’s internal teams.
Key Questions Addressed
When Will DSS Access Be Removed?: Walmart aims to complete the transition by March 1, 2024. This gives stakeholders a clear timeframe for the change.
Access to DSS Reports: Unfortunately, once DSS access is removed, users will lose access to all DSS reports, historical data included.
Collaboration through Luminate: Walmart Data Ventures continues to invest in true omnichannel visibility and enhanced collaboration between Walmart Merchants and suppliers. The goal is to put the right products in the right places at the right times, resonating with the changing retail landscape.
No Bots in Luminate: To maintain data security and governance, Walmart has taken the strategic decision not to permit bots in any version of Walmart Luminate.
Merchant Involvement: All Walmart Merchants have embraced Luminate, using it to make data-informed decisions about their business. This ensures that suppliers and merchants are on the same page when it comes to their retail strategies.
Enhancements in Luminate: Luminate Basic offers a range of enhancements over DSS, including enhanced eComm sales metrics, full filter suggestions, faster run times, and email notifications upon report completion.
Global Availability: The removal of DSS access applies only to Walmart U.S. internal and external users. It won’t impact other global markets.
EDI Access: Access to EDI (AS2) feeds in DSS will be removed, but the data will be available in Walmart Luminate’s Channel Performance Report Builder. Suppliers can access this data through different Luminate offerings.
What’s on the Horizon?
As with any major transition, there are bound to be questions and uncertainties. It’s essential to know that Walmart is committed to providing support and guidance throughout the process. Onboarding details and access removal schedules will be shared in due course. Suppliers should take this opportunity to reach out to their Account Managers for assistance.
A Learning Experience
For many, this transition represents a learning experience. Walmart, its suppliers, and partners are all on this journey together. The goal is to adapt, learn, and grow in the new landscape that Luminate offers.
Change is never without its challenges, but it often leads to exciting new opportunities. Walmart’s transition from DSS to Luminate is no exception. As Walmart and its partners embrace this change, they are poised to discover the vast potential and untapped opportunities that Luminate has to offer.
The retail industry is ever-changing, and adaptability is the key to success. Walmart’s transition from DSS to Luminate is a significant step towards a brighter, more collaborative future for retail. By navigating this change together, suppliers, Walmart, and partners can tap into the full potential of Luminate, revolutionizing the way they do business.
Change is here, and it’s time to embrace it and see where it takes us in the world of retail.
