Raw data is potential; analyzed data is power. Exporting your MuleBuy spreadsheets unlocks deeper insights. Learn to merge this data with cost analytics to master your sourcing strategy.
Why Export and Merge MuleBuy Data?
MuleBuy spreadsheets contain a wealth of transactional information—product specifications, supplier details, order volumes, and prices. However, this data often sits in isolation. Exporting and merging
Step-by-Step: From Export to Merged Analysis
Step 1: Exporting Data from MuleBuy Spreadsheets
Begin by ensuring your MuleBuy spreadsheet is complete. Then, locate the "File""Export"
Pro Tip:
File → Download → Comma-Separated Values (.csv)Microsoft Excel (.xlsx).MuleBuy_Export_SupplierX_Q4_2024.csv).
Step 2: Preparing Data for Merging
Clean data is crucial for a successful merge. Open your export in a spreadsheet tool like Google Sheets or Excel.
- Standardize Formats:
- Create a Unique Key:SupplierIDProductSKU
- Remove Duplicates:
- Create a Unique Key:SupplierIDProductSKU
Step 3: Merging with Cost Analytics Tools
This is where insights multiply. Import your prepared .csv/.xlsx
XLOOKUP, or Power Query
Key Metrics to Discover Post-Merge
Once your data is merged, calculate these powerful metrics:
| Metric | Formula / Description | Business Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Landing Cost per Unit | (Product Cost + Shipping + Taxes + Duties) / Quantity | The true total cost of an item, essential for pricing and margin calculation. |
| Volume Price Efficiency Ratio | % Change in Unit Cost / % Change in Order Volume | Quantifies the discount benefit of ordering larger volumes. Identifies the most efficient order tiers. |
| Supplier Cost Trend | Time-series analysis of landing cost for a key product from a specific supplier. | Reveals if a supplier's costs are stable, rising, or falling, informing negotiation strategy. |
| Category Sourcing Velocity | Total Units Ordered per Category over Time (e.g., quarterly) | Highlights rising or declining categories, guiding inventory and marketing focus. |
Best Practices for Ongoing Analysis
Automate When Possible
Use scripts or built-in connectors to automate data exports and imports, saving time and reducing errors.
Maintain a Master Database
Continuously append new export files to a central master database to build a long-term, queryable history.
Visualize Your Findings
Create dashboards with charts and graphs for at-a-glance insights into trends, efficiency, and supplier performance.
Close the Feedback Loop
Use your analysis findings to inform your next round of sourcing negotiations on MuleBuy, creating a cycle of continuous improvement.