Implementing a Product Information Management (PIM) system is an investment that requires careful preparation. After developing an action plan with clear goals and needs, the next step is to schedule a workshop with our PIM experts. But what can you expect from such a workshop? And how do you know if it’s relevant for your company? In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process and explain why this workshop forms the foundation for a successful PIM implementation.
Is having a PIM workshop relevant for your organization?
The decision to have a workshop depends on your company’s type and the volume of data to be processed. Scenarios in which a workshop might be beneficial include cases where your company operates in multiple countries, has a relatively large product database, or involves many stakeholders and/or departments.
In short: if your company needs a more complex PIM system. When you consult with our PIM experts, they will assess your needs to determine whether a workshop is necessary.
What should you prepare before a PIM workshop?
Before scheduling a workshop, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your current Product Information processes and where you want to improve. It’s also helpful to document the challenges you face and the problems you wish to solve. Additionally, ensure you have a list of requirements—what do you want to achieve with a PIM system, and what is your budget?
Once all this information is documented and a workshop is scheduled, it’s essential, as a project leader, to invite all relevant internal participants to attend, such as stakeholders, IT, marketing, or quality control. Once everyone is gathered the workshop can begin.
What happens in the PIM workshop?
During a workshop, SRC will map out your entire Product Information process from A to Z. Our experts prepare thoroughly and will already have a clear idea of what your ideal PIM system should look like.
The full outline of the PIM system includes, but is not limited to:
What data needs to be processed, and how large is the catalog?
Where does the data come from, and where is it going? Do you sell in multiple countries? A PIM system can help streamline product data, reducing errors.
What data models will you use in the PIM system?
Standardized data models such as GS1, ETIM, PS in Foodservice, Superunie adam, GS1-Healthcare, or a custom model are all possible, multiple data models combined in one PIM environment are also available with SRC.
Do you want to integrate other systems with your PIM system, and which system will be the primary one?
For example, if you sell products on multiple e-commerce platforms like Bol, Amazon, or eBay, these can be easily exported through your PIM system. Integrating your PIM system with other systems such as ERP, CRM, or e-commerce platforms can improve data quality, workflows, and your overall customer experience.
Which modules do you want to use in your PIM system?
Avoid adding too many modules upfront; focus on those that will genuinely be used. The more information our experts have, the better they can suggest modules relevant to your PIM project, such as a DAM module for product images or a Workflow module if multiple departments (Sales, Marketing, Quality Assurance, Category Management, etc.) are involved in product information management.
Once it’s clear what needs to be done, a cost overview is created.
What is the outcome of a PIM workshop?
After all requirements and needs have been documented, our experts can get to work. Based on the workshop, you’ll know exactly who is responsible for each task and when they should be completed, following a timeline. The entire architecture of your PIM system will be designed according to your specific needs and requirements.
As a result of the workshop, you will receive several documents:
- A detailed report/presentation of the workshop, including the project scope discussed.
- A schematic diagram of the solution’s architecture.
- A proposal detailing the one-time implementation costs and the monthly SaaS subscription fees.
- A proposed project plan with a timeline.
Are you ready for a PIM workshop for your organization or do you want more information? Contact us to discover what we can do for you via sales@src.eu.