It is unlikely that there is anyone else in Ecommerce who has not heard about PIM systems. The Global Market Value of Product Information Management (PIM) software is expected to rise to $ 59.25 billion by 2027. This statistic underscores the importance of this software, which serves as a single source of truth for storing, managing and distributing product data. When used correctly, PIM software can increase conversions by up to 50%. However, a PIM system need not exist alone. Combined with the other business software, the PIM solution can achieve new functionalities. That's where PIM integration comes in.
WHAT IS PIM INTEGRATION?
PIM integration is the synchronization of product information management systems with other software. By integrating PIM with solutions such as CRM and ERP, companies can experience a boost in platform independent functionality. Seamless communication between business software increases productivity and sales, among other things. Therefore, it is a practice that is encouraged for all systems.
Previously, the integration of PIM was done through a point-to-point approach. Unfortunately, this caused several problems. For example, it requires a developer with the technical know-how to build custom codes between the systems. However, the recent API-based approach to software integration has greatly simplified the process. Now PIM integration with compatible systems can be done quickly and efficiently.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PIM INTEGRATION?
- Improving staff productivity
- Better interdepartmental cooperation
- Increase in sales and reduce costs
- Database Optimization
- Reduction or elimination of repetitive manual data entry
- Acceleration of business expansion plans
WHAT ARE THE SYSTEMS TO INTEGRATE?
RESOURCE PLANNING
ERP is a system that many confuse with PIM, even though they differ significantly. Unlike PIM, which focuses on product data, ERP is more robust and handles finance, manufacturing, and project management information. ERP is designed to process information such as price information, inventory data, inventories and other transaction data. These are certainly all directly related to the marketing information of PIM. Therefore, PIM integration with ERP makes sense for business operations. Some benefits include perfection of product data, faster time to market and realization of an omnichannel marketing strategy.
CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT
CRM software is for organizing and collecting customer data. While the distinction between its function and that of a PIM is clear, their ability to complement each other is well established. A key benefit of PIM integration with CRM is the improvement of the customer experience. Syncing customer data with product information makes personalized shopping and omnichannel customer experience easier. In addition, customer behavior predictions created with CRM can be used directly to optimize product information for targeted marketing.
ECOMMERCE PLATFORMS
Shopify, BigCommerce, and WooComerce are a few examples of Ecommerce platforms that provide online stores for merchants. Therefore, the benefits of PIM integration with these types of platforms are immediately apparent. Synchronizing PIM with Ecommerce platforms will immediately improve the distribution and visibility of product data related to customers.
DIGITAL MARKETPLACES
As part of your omnichannel marketing strategy, you may decide to sell on Amazon, eBay, and other marketplaces. In such a case, PIM integration is an absolute necessity. It helps maintain consistency of product data and accuracy of inventory information. In addition, it facilitates efforts to expand into new markets.
DIGITAL IMAGES MANAGEMENT
As the name suggests, it is DAM a database for digital files. This means images, videos, PDFs and other media relevant to products. These digital assets are undoubtedly an important part of product information. That's why PIM integration with DAM is an integral part of optimizing product information. Images and videos can be quickly linked to product descriptions, ensuring consistency across marketing channels.
MAIN DATA MANAGEMENT
MDM is a versatile tool that unifies and synchronizes all the critical data collected by a company. Because product information is a subset of this critical data, PIM integration with DAM offers interesting benefits. By feeding each other data, the combination of these systems can facilitate interdepartmental collaboration. Improvements in customer experience and marketing strategy can then be implemented seamlessly.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
AI is software that spreads its reach far and wide, and PIM is certainly not exempt. The main advantage of PIM integration with AI is the automation of processes. Therefore, AI integration drives efficiency and productivity by reducing the time and effort invested in manual tasks. Ultimately, AI adds more integrity to PIM's claim as the gold record of product data. Companies therefore enjoy all the many benefits of PIM with minimal fuss.
In short, the seven tools mentioned above have the potential to increase the value of PIM increase. Please note that PIM integration is not always required. Advertising decisions should be driven by use cases defined by business stakeholders. However, if the need for integration is identified, do not hesitate to take the step of pairing your PIM with the relevant software.
