Using Deck Designer with an Account - User modes

The layout designer tool supportstwo types of user experiencesbased on whether the customer is logged in or not. This ensures both guest users and registered users can interact with the design tool, but with different levels of functionality and access.

Using layout designer tool with an Account

When aregistered and logged-in useraccesses the layout designer tool, they getfull accessto all the features of the tool.

Full project and template management

1. Users can start a new project from scratch by selecting deck dimensions, templates, and shapes.
2. The system provides a clean workspace where users can add products, choose templates, and modify design elements.
3. Users can choose from a collection of predefined templates created by the admin.
4. Templates help users quickly start their design process using pre-configured layouts, materials, and product combinations.
5. Templates can be fully customized once loaded into the workspace.
6. Users can save their ongoing work at any point, ensuring no progress is lost.
7. Saved projects are linked to the user’s account and can be accessed anytime from the "My Projects" section.
8. The system supports multiple saved projects per user, making it easier to handle different layout designs simultaneously.
9. Users can reopen any saved project and make modifications such as changing dimensions, replacing products, or adjusting layouts.
10. Updated projects can be re-saved, maintaining version consistency or optionally saved as a new project.
11. Users can convert their completed designs into reusable templates by using the “Save as Template” option.
12. Custom templates can be organized, renamed, and managed under a dedicated “My Templates” section.
13. Since all projects are stored in the user’s account database, they can access and edit their designs from any device after logging in.
14. This provides flexibility for users who wish to continue their design work across different devices or sessions.

Product Integration with Cart

1. Logged-in users of the layout designer Tool experience a seamless connection between their designs and theonline purchasing system of the nopCommerce platform. This integration ensures that all products used within a layout design are directly linked to their respective items in the store, enabling users to transition effortlessly from design creation to checkout.
2. Each item placed in the layout design workspace (e.g., decking boards, posts, fasteners, railings) is synchronized with its corresponding product in the nopCommerce catalog.
   The system automatically updates product information—such as pricing, stock availability, and SKU details—to reflect the store’s latest data.
3. Users can view the total quantity of materials required for their deck project, reducing manual effort and potential calculation errors.
   They can add individual products or the entire set of materials to their shopping cart without leaving the design interface.
   The“Add to Cart”feature automatically includes correct quantities, specifications, and selected attributes (e.g., color, size, or material type).
4. The tool displays a real-time cost estimate of the complete design based on selected products. Users can adjust items or quantities and instantly see the updated total cost, helping them stay within project budgets.
5. The tool also adheres tostore-wide promotions, discounts, and pricing configurations defined within the nopCommerce platform. When adding products to the cart, any applicable discounts are automatically applied.
6. Before adding products, the system checks real-time inventory to ensure product availability. If an item is out of stock or exceeds allowed limits, users receive alerts to prevent order errors.
7. Once the design is finalized and products are added to the cart, users can proceed directly to checkout, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted workflow from design to purchase.
8. For users managing multiple deck projects, products from various designs can be added to a single cart. The system automatically consolidates identical items and quantities to streamline checkout and reduce confusion.
9. Product integration remains consistent across all devices, allowing users to design and add products to their cart seamlessly from desktops, tablets, or smartphones.