PIM

PIM stands for Product Information Management. It refers to the processes and software a company uses to manage all its product information centrally and distribute it to its sales channels. The focus is on the data needed to market and sell products.

The basic idea: each piece of information is entered only once and stored in one place. This central source is known as the “Single Source of Truth” or “Golden Record”. From there, data flows to the online store, marketplaces, print catalogue, retailers and other systems without having to be entered manually again.

What data a PIM manages

• Master data such as item number, EAN, product name and manufacturer
• Technical specifications, dimensions, weights and units
• Marketing copy and translations
• Images, videos and documents, or links to them
• Categories, classifications and relationships such as accessories or spare parts

When a PIM is worth the investment

A PIM becomes relevant when product data is maintained in parallel across multiple Excel spreadsheets, the ERP system and the online store, when multiple channels or languages need to be supported, or when retailers and marketplaces require data in specific formats. Typical benefits include fewer errors, faster time to market for new products and less effort spent maintaining data. Find out more under PIM benefits.

How PIM differs from ERP, MDM and PLM

The ERP system manages commercial data such as prices, inventory and orders. An MDM system handles all types of master data, including customer and supplier data. PLM supports product development. PIM sits between these systems and prepares product data for marketing and sales.

See also: What is PIM? · PIM vendors at a glance · PCM · PIM vs. MDM · PIM selection

Our independent PIM consulting services support you in selecting and implementing a PIM system.