Preparing auctions
Auctions need time for preparation. Several things have to be in place before an auction is ready for activation.
The preparation process may result in
Categories are created/updated.
Auction is created.
Auction is sorted.
Auction is scheduled (all lots corresponding to an auction).
Combined auctions are normally active for a fixed period, while online auctions (lot sold online) could be valid for a long period. This means that you create a new auction for each combined auction, while online auctions just get new lots added (normally). Categories are common for all auctions, updates are done just one time (will be available for each auction that exist or are created). Sorting puts auction objects in the right order and assign object numbers according to this. Sorting is just done for combined auction today, mainly for catalogue purposes. Scheduling sets the date for when objects will be active for bidding.
Tasks involved in this process
Create/maintain categories.
Create and configure an auction.
Set the rules for sorting of LOT.
Sorting an auction.
Schedule lots.