How do I get distribution counts for specific zip codes?

A current or prospective client has provided zip codes and wants you to provide counts for Home Delivery, Single Copy and TMC.  Or you are prospecting for new business and have a list of zip codes around a retail location. How do you get this information?  This is an easy process using Quick Plan.

GET DISTRIBUTION COUNTS BY ZIP CODE

Step 1.  Open Quick Plan

 Step 2.  Click on the Quick Plan Tab

Step 3.  Select a Start and End Date

Within Criteria and filters, use Description to enter the name of your report.  This name will be displayed on the map and distribution reports.  Use the drop-down calendar under Start to select the date you want for distribution counts.  Use the drop-down calendar under End to select the end date.

 Step 4.  Enter Zip Codes

To enter a single zip code within Select Geography, type in the zip code and Control/Enter to quickly add the zip code.  Repeat process until each zip code is entered.

For longer zip code lists (greater than 7-10 zips), Best Practice is to copy and paste them from excel into the zip code field and Control/Enter.  Multiple zip codes must be in a single column and cannot be separated by a coma.

To remove a zip code from the list, click on the zip code and an “X” will appear on right side.  Click on the “X” and the zip code will be deleted.

To add a zip code to the geography, enter the zip code in the field and Control/Enter. The map on the right side of the screen will be updated to reflect your selections.

Step 5.  Select the Distribution Method

Under Distribution Method, use the drop-down arrow, to view the eligible distribution methods within the dates you have selected.  The system defaults to the selection of all distribution methods.  To deselect a distribution, click the box to the left of the distribution method to remove it.  When finished, click Apply.  If you prefer different distribution methods for each date you selected, use Date and Distribution Method to make your selection.  This option is located to the right of Distribution Method.

Step 6.  View Selection on the Map

After you have selected the dates, zip codes and distribution methods, review the map.  If you want to add or delete zip codes or change distribution methods, follow the steps noted above.  Use the Mapping Tool to adjust the view of your map.

Step 7.  View and Output Distribution Counts by Zip Code

To view and output your information, click on Quick Reports Tab.

Within Report, the details of your zips, distribution methods, counts and dates are summarized.

To output the information, click on Download  (located in the upper right area of your screen).   A popup will appear on your screen allowing you to select the file format for the output of your information.  Best Practice is to select Crosstab, which will provide the detail you see on the screen in an excel format.

Upon making your selection, a popup window will appear informing you the file has been generated.  Click on Download to complete the action.  The file will be saved to your computer and is also seen in the lower left corner of your screen.

To immediately view, click on the file to open.

This information may be emailed to your client or used as you prefer.

Step 8.  View and Output Quick Map by Zip

To output the Map, follow the same process (Step 7) used to download the Zip Code Distribution Report.  In this instance, the Best Practice is to select PDF as your file format.  Note that the description (entered in Step 2) is the title of the map output.

9.  Save your View

If you want to save your proposal for future reference, click on View in the upper right of your screen.

Type in the name of your proposal and click Save.

To retrieve the proposal in the future, go to Quick Plan and click on View Original.  In the pop up you will see My Views.  Click on the proposal you want to open and it will be retrieved.