Introduction

Product information management (or just PIM) is becoming increasingly important for manufacturers, wholesalers, and brands. The growing focus on the quality of product information and efficient implementation of omnichannel strategy are the results of high market competition.

PIM AGENCIES VS PIM PROVIDERS

Optimizing processes and reducing both time and costs with PIM system is only possible if you:

• Select the right software for your business.
• Involve a proper PIM agency that can implement the selected system.

Define your objectives

Before diving into the selection of a PIM agency, assess your specific PIM requirements. Conduct an in-depth internal analysis of your business processes, identify pain points, bottlenecks, and determine the areas where effective product information management can make a significant impact. This groundwork will serve as a foundation for selecting both the right system and the agency that aligns with your unique needs.

What does a PIM agency do?

PIM agencies may offer various services beyond just implementing the software itself. Consider whether you require assistance with data migration, integration with other systems, ongoing support, or training programs. Understanding the full range of services offered by each agency will help you determine which one can provide comprehensive support for your project.

Here is a list of tasks you can expect a PIM agency to perform –

• Carry out a system evaluation.
• Consult on strategy.
• Analyze and document the current status of existing processes in product management, marketing, and sales.
• Define the target state, specify the requirements for all departments concerned, evaluate who should use the PIM system in the future, and establish how to optimize and implement existing processes in the system.
• Install and configure the selected product information management software.
• Perform data migration; the product information is cleaned up and taken from existing systems.
• Integrate it into the user's system landscape; normally, this is integrated with the user's ERP system, online shops, and marketplaces for automatic data exchange.
• Realize all requirements and introduce the system to the user.
• Carry out the necessary personnel training for the user.

How to choose the PIM agency?

The key consideration is straightforward: a professional PIM agency generally focuses on a specific expertise. These service providers typically specialize in one or two types of software. It's rare to find service providers familiar with two such systems, let alone a larger number.

To navigate the intricate landscape of PIM solutions, consider engaging a PIM consultancy during the initial phase of your project.

PIM consultancies specialize in requirements analysis and selection of suitable software for you but are not involved in the implementation of the selected software. They are independent of software providers and can offer unbiased insights into various PIM systems based on your specific requirements.

By determining your software needs before approaching a PIM agency, you ensure that the selected software addresses your business challenges instead of simply accepting an agency's preferred solution.

If you start looking for a PIM agency before having chosen the right system, the agency will recommend the software they work with, irrespective of your specifications. This kind of recommendation is, of course, very biased and should be avoided.

To avoid this problem, the PIM project should be divided into two large phases –

1. Select a PIM software (perhaps with the help of a PIM consultancy)
2. Select a PIM agency to be responsible for the software introduction.

Before you start searching for a PIM agency, assess your specific needs and requirements. This will help you find an agency that aligns with your business goals and objectives.

Start by evaluating your current product data management processes. Are you struggling with data inconsistencies, manual data entry, or inefficient workflows? Determine the pain points and challenges you are facing in managing your product data.

Next, consider the scope and scale of your product catalog. Do you have a large number of SKUs? Are you planning to expand your product offerings in the near future? Understanding the size and complexity of your product data will help you determine the level of expertise and capabilities required from a PIM agency.

Additionally, consider your budget and resources. PIM agencies offer a range of services and pricing models, so it's important to find one that fits within your financial constraints.

By assessing your PIM needs, you can narrow down your options and find a PIM agency that is best suited to meet your specific requirements. In the next section, we will discuss the key factors to consider when evaluating PIM agencies.

Once you have a clear understanding of your software requirements, the task of selecting a suitable agency becomes more streamlined. Leverage the connections of your chosen software provider, exploring the network of partner agencies they collaborate with.

A PIM agency recommended by your software provider is likely to have experience with the selected system, fostering a smoother integration process.

Is a PIM agency always needed?

In some instances, a PIM agency may not be necessary, especially when the PIM software provider can independently implement the software using their own resources. An example of such a provider is AtroPIM which performs the full process of software implementation.

Before initiating your search for a PIM agency, conduct a thorough assessment of your specific needs and requirements to determine if external assistance aligns with your business goals and objectives.

Conclusion

The Steps of Your PIM Project

• Step 1: Evaluate Your Needs: Assess your specific PIM requirements, conduct an in-depth internal analysis of your business processes.
• Step 2: Select the Right Software: Determine your software needs before approaching a PIM agency. Engage a PIM consultancy for unbiased insights into various PIM systems.
• Step 3: Assess the Need for a PIM Agency: Consider the capabilities of the selected PIM software provider. Determine if the software provider can independently implement the software. If yes, you may not need a separate PIM agency for implementation.
• Step 4: If Needed, Choose a PIM Agency: If a PIM agency is necessary, evaluate your product data management processes, product catalog scope, and budget. Consider PIM agencies' expertise, capabilities, and recommendations from your software provider.
• Step 5: Ensure a Harmonious Collaboration: The success of PIM implementation relies on collaboration between software and agency. Look for an agency with technical proficiency and industry understanding. Seek testimonials or case studies to ensure practical experience.

Choosing the right PIM agency is important, but choosing the right software is even more important. This should always be done first because only proper software can effectively address your business challenges and fulfill specific tasks. Decide on an agency that has been recommended to you by the PIM provider and, preferably, one with demonstrated project experience in your industry.

Keep in mind that the success of your product data management implementation relies on a harmonious collaboration between the chosen software and the implementing agency. Look for an agency that not only possesses technical proficiency but also understands the intricacies of your industry. Seek testimonials or case studies showcasing their successful implementations in similar business landscapes, ensuring they bring a wealth of practical experience to the table.

By strategically dividing the PIM project into – first, picking the right software, and second, getting the agency on board – you help your organization succeed in managing product information better.