Understanding Canonical Names for Containers
In many organizations, multiple identical containers exist—for example, your warehouse might have 20 different "Knee Replacement" trays, each with a unique catalog number. Canonical Names allow you to group these identical types of containers under a single, recognizable name. This simplifies the process for field users who need to request a specific type of set without needing to know a specific individual catalog number.
What it Means for You
Simplified Searching: You no longer need to hunt for exact catalog numbers; searching by the common name (e.g., "ACL Kit") will bring up the correct container type.
Flexible Fulfillment: Requesters can ask for a "type" of container, and the fulfiller can choose which specific available unit to send.
Reduced Errors: Using standardized names ensures requesters and fulfillers are always on the same page regarding what equipment is needed for a case.
Cleaner Requests: When searching by canonical name, the system displays a single row for that name rather than a long list of every individual duplicate container in the system.
Using Canonical Names in Your Workflow
Inventory Requests
When creating a new request, the search field now recognizes both specific catalog numbers and canonical container names. If you search for a canonical name, you can select a single grouped result. The request will track that you need that type of container, marked with a Container chip for easy identification.
Fulfillment
Fulfillers seeing a request for a canonical name have the authority to select the specific physical container used to satisfy the request. Once fulfilled, the system will display the information in a Canonical Name (Catalog #) format so you can see both the general type requested and the specific item sent.
Pick Lists and Documentation
On pick list PDFs, containers requested by canonical name are clearly distinguished. The "Catalog" column will display the Canonical Name to ensure the person pulling the inventory knows they are fulfilling a general category request.
How to use Canonical Names for Requests
Navigate to the Requests section and initiate a Create Request modal.
In Step 1, select the option now labeled Devices/Containers/Packs (previously "Loose devices").
In the search field, type the Canonical Name of the container you need.
Select the single row that matches that name; the system will store this general name rather than a specific ID.
Complete the request details and click Create.
For Fulfillers: Open the request detail page and locate the item marked with the Container chip. Select a specific available container of that type to fulfill the line item.
Note: To ensure these names are available for selection, ensure your Organization Admins have properly maintained the Product Catalog with the correct canonical naming conventions.