PIM systems provide a technology platform where both individuals and teams can collect, organize, collaborate, and enrich product data and product-related digital assets across the enterprise. A PIM solution aids in the publication or syndication of product data across eCommerce websites, brand portals, and other channels used in marketing products. The goal of a Product Information Management platform is to make the collection, editing, and management of product data easier while enriching the end user's product experience thereby driving brand loyalty and product sales.

Using PIM software entails collecting all of the product information in your organization and importing that data into the PIM tool, then organizing, classifying, and enriching it. Often legacy product data is stored in documents and spreadsheets and must be bulk imported into the PIM system. Our Software provides a platform specially designed to assist in importing your initial product data. Using a PIM platform exposes product data managers to many new concepts such as defining a product data model and related product attributes, as well as filtering, sorting, and mapping data. Our PIM software even allows you to leverage Artificial Intelligence to assist in managing and enriching your product data.

The disadvantages of not having a PIM and trying to manage and share such information with spreadsheets are self-evident. Identifying the disadvantages of choosing the wrong PIM platform or open-source PIM solution may not be as clear. It is important that you select a PIM solution like PIMinto that provides comprehensive onboarding and training. Additionally, your software should allow you to properly evaluate advanced PIM features before you are dependent on them. Likewise, it is critical that your data management solution allows you to maintain ownership of your information.

Utilizing a PIM is the best solution because the advantages are clear. You no longer need to get lost in spreadsheets, documents and file shares. A PIM makes organizing product data easy. PIM systems are specifically designed for marketplace and channel integration making data syndication and conforming to marketing strategies much easier. Additionally, many tasks can be scheduled or performed on demand, removing the need for tedious manual tasks, while bulk operations and Artificial intelligence make updating much less time-consuming. With these advantages, PIM systems stand out as the go-to solution for managing complex product catalogs. However, it’s essential to understand how a PIM differs from other tools, such as master data management (MDM) platforms or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. This awareness will help you find the right product management technology for your business needs.

PIM vs ERP

PIM systems and ERP systems both assist in managing data from multiple sources to improve operational efficiency. While ERP systems help with operations like inventory, accounting, and supply chain management, they lack the technical specifications needed for thorough product content management. In contrast, PIM systems excel in handling all the nuanced information associated with selling physical products. They can easily spread data to distribution channels or create product listings in eCommerce platforms. Note, that PIM and ERP can complement each other to provide a complete solution for operational and product information management.

For businesses seeking cost-effective solutions, a Free PIM plan on PIMinto offers a compelling option. Our PIM platform provides a brand portal and unlimited sales channels as part of the free plan. With other PIM, this is not the case. This enables even small businesses to leverage advanced product information management capabilities.