Using the Asks feature for vendor communications

What is the Asks feature?

The Asks feature in thesheet allows you to send direct inquiries to suppliers about specific products in your project. 

Key benefits:

• Send inquiries with product details automatically included
• Ensure suppliers know exactly which products you're asking about
• Keep all communication organised within your project
• Receive supplier responses directly to your inbox

How to use the Asks feature

Creating a new Ask

1. In the Sheet view of your project, click the checkmark icon in the top right corner to activate multi-select.
2. Select all the products you want to include in your inquiry.
3. Click the Actions dropdown and select Ask from supplier.
4. Navigate to the Asks tab to view your new inquiry card.

Note: You can also send products to asks from the Financial overview also using the multiselect icon. 

Troubleshooting: Supplier is not added 

If you have selected a product that doesn’t have a supplier it will be added to the default or null supplier in asks. 

1. Simply delete this from the asks tab, by selecting the 3 dot icon on the right and from the drop down selecting delete.
2. From the Sheet view on the specific product, select a supplier contact from your studio's database or type in a new supplier and select Add.
3. After adding a supplier, repeat the above Ask from supplier steps and it will be added with the supplier info. 

Tip: Take the time to update your supplier contacts. Add emails, direct contacts, or regional agents to make the Asks process easier.

Sending your ask (inquiry) to suppliers

1. Verify inquiry information:
   • Ensure all relevant details, including the contact email and product information, are in the Ask card.
2. Note: If a contact was added to the supplier, this will automatically be added to the Ask.
3. Send your inquiry:
   • After verifying the information, click the Ask from supplier button on the right.
   • An inquiry details menu will open, automatically populated with the supplier's information and product details.
   • Add your specific questions or requests in the message section and hit Send.

Your supplier will receive an email with:

• Your specific inquiry
• A list of the products you're asking about (with images and details)
• A link to view the products in thesheet supplier view

What your supplier will see

Through the thesheet supplier view, your suppliers can:

• View the products from your inquiries, including product details, quantities, and SKUs.
• Respond directly to your inquiry via email.

This feature speeds up the communication process and makes it easier for suppliers to provide specific information for your projects.

Common uses for the Asks feature

The Asks feature is versatile and can be used for various types of inquiries:

• Price confirmation: Verify current pricing and available trade discounts
• Product availability: Check stock levels and lead times
• Material options: Inquire about alternative fabrics, finishes, or materials
• Custom modifications: Ask about possible customisations to standard products
• Shipping information: Get details on shipping costs and delivery timeframes
• Bulk order discounts: Negotiate pricing for multiple items

Tips for effective Asks

• Be specific: Clearly state what information you need from the supplier
• Group related products: Use multi-select to include multiple items in a single inquiry when they're related
• Include all details: Mention quantity, size, finish, etc. to avoid back-and-forth communication
• Set context: Briefly explain the project scope to help suppliers understand your needs
• Follow up: Track which inquiries have received responses and follow up on outstanding ones

By using the Asks feature effectively, you can streamline communication with suppliers, save time, and keep all product information organised within thesheet.