A PIM system (Product Information Management system) is a software solution that enables businesses to centrally collect, manage, enrich product information and distribute it to various sales channels. So simple, so smart.
On this page, we answer your questions about Product Information Management.
It is rather simple: A PIM system collects and saves all product data at a central spot. Sources of such information may include ERP or PLM systems, excel tables, or data imports provided by data suppliers. This product data is then structured and categorized in order to enable simple and easy data management.
Through integrated content and data editing functions, product information can be easily kept up-to-date and enriched with new content in the PIM system. PIM software supports automated distribution of product information into a wide range of sales channels, for example:
This ensures consistent presentation of product information.
In a PIM system, all product-relevant data is managed. This includes:
Depending on the flexibility of your data model (defined by you), you can also map product-related data like components, ingredient formulas, or delivery and logistic company data.
While every system may have its very own focus and purpose, they can, however, be used together and combined with one another in your corporate infrastructure. This allows you to achieve comprehensive data management.
PIM System
A PIM system (Product Information Management) concentrates on the management and maintenance of product information with the purpose of ensuring consistent and engaging product communication.
ERP System
ERP systems (Enterprise Resource Planning) such as SAP are comprehensive software solutions that integrate a company’s operation and business processes, including finances, personnel, purchases, and stock keeping.
MDM Systems
MDM systems (Master Data Management) have the aim of controlling the quality and consistency of all data relevant for business within a company. This does not only cover product information but also customer and supplier data.
A PIM system is primarily useful for companies that offer a broad range of products and distribute them to multiple sales channels. A “product” may not necessarily be limited to material objects such as, for example, a pair of shoes. Products may also include hotel rooms or services.
All e-commerce companies, manufacturers, and small to large-scale retailers can profit from a PIM system by efficiently managing and optimizing their product information. Companies that operate on an international scale or communicate in different languages may also find a PIM system extremely helpful for standardizing and localizing product information. All in all, a PIM system can be used by any company that wants to improve and enhance the product experience for their customers.
Different corporate departments and employees can work with PIM software, depending on their tasks and responsibilities within the company.
Simple, smart, successful – the ATAMYA system is a cloud-native PIM solution with a focus on easy usability and integration. ATAMYA Product Cloud is a modern PIM platform that was developed with MACH criteria and composable commerce in mind. It delivers the properties required to quickly, easily and successfully deliver product information to all relevant channels.
To the Overview: ATAMYA Product Cloud Features
The costs of a PIM system may vary according to PIM provider, scope of functionality, and effort required for the PIM implementation. As a general rule, PIM systems are offered in the form of a subscription model. On top of that, additional costs are involved for the onboarding and professional training of employees. The subscription fee usually depends on the number of users, the required memory usage, and all sorts of other extra functions.
It is best practice to compare the different offers and take into consideration the individual requirements of your marketing, e-commerce, product management, and IT departments in order to find the suitable solution.
When selecting a PIM solution, it is crucial to factor in the specific use cases and objectives of all the involved departments. Companies should evaluate the usability, scalability, security, and support services of the PIM provider. Furthermore, the PIM system’s integration options are decisive. Depending on the approach, for example the best-in-class strategy, you may pay special attention to whether you can easily connect the PIM with other systems already used in the company. This may involve ERP systems, DAM systems, or even online shops.
It is advised to test demo versions, check references, and analyze the cost structure when it comes to making the right decision. On top of all this, the flexibility of the PIM system should be taken in consideration, with particular emphasis on future upgrades and modifications.
Questions? We’re happy to answer!
Want to learn more about how a PIM system can support you in managing your product data? Contact us to make an appointment with one of our PIM experts.
