Data fields in the PIM system

Import Routines

The importer in the PIM system uses the API function of the application. In this process, logics are integrated via JSON file that automatically retrieves a provided CSV or Excel file. Many of our customer applications use this functionality to automatically enrich data in the PIM system or to create new records. The functionality corresponds to the procedure of output via API. However, the import routine offers additional possibilities for data manipulation.

Mapping of Import Data

Data often comes from global systems within a company. There, they are stored in various databases, making it necessary to incorporate multiple importers.

Each import requires a primary characteristic to know which items the data should be enriched with.

The imports can be adjusted by our development team. For example, if specific fields in the import are allocated with acronyms that have a different meaning, this will be mapped with the import. Another use case can be the construction of a product title that is to be assembled from several fields.

Many other scenarios can be realized using this functionality.

Digital agency for many years

Through years of work for large corporations such as Procter & Gamble, Unilever, Merz, Duracell, De’Longhi, Coty, Wella, BASF, Knauf, L’Oréal, dm Drogerie, etc., we have learned a lot and recognized that the old patterns of separating data into the respective functional areas still occur and far too frequently.

In this context, the DAM system is seen as the media database of marketing. Product information is firmly in the hands of logistics or R&D, legal information is found in the database of the legal department, and marketing texts are lying dormant in various Word files. Just to name a few examples …

Structural change and rethinking

A key factor is, therefore, providing data on a central platform. We call this Single Point Of Information.

Sounds simple, but it is highly complex. Because technically, data often lies in various places and not always in the best quality. Ten or more sources are not uncommon.

Many specialist areas need to be addressed. We repeatedly notice a certain inertia here.

PIM and DAM systems are a crucial step in the digitization of the company. They lead to significant resource and efficiency advantages and are the foundation for quality, completeness and distribution of product data of all kinds.

Interfaces create performance

Our strategy, therefore, primarily concerns the central provision of data, which should be able to do one thing above all. Sell!

In the establishment, the following aspects must also be fundamentally considered:

1. Communication within the company, showcasing advantages and disadvantages, breaking down barriers

2. Making systems as simple as possible to use

3. Enabling content syndication, API, output containers, gradually implementing download formats

4. Providing product data and media data in an integrated manner, allowing no media breaks and avoiding duplicate data

5. Establishing workflows (Traffic Light Indicator, editing, importer, API, approvals, GDSN, etc.)

Here is a statement from our owner Oliver Dietz to conclude:

Experience counts, we notice this every hour and every day of our work.  The implementation of a PIM and DAM system is a big step and must be desired, lived, and supported by the management. Only then can barriers be broken down and employees be taken along. This is a communication task that has at least the same importance as the purely technical work. We cover both areas as dietz.digital, as we are a digital agency that has been driving communication for many years and lives digitalization and programming on a daily basis.

1. Step: Registration

Registration takes place via the link on the login screen: "No access yet? Click here." The following page allows all settings and data entries necessary to enable the first step of registration.

Individual Fields

In principle, this page can request additional fields if the customer system specifies individual fields, such as a customer number, employee number, or other validations. Registration in the PIM system (also in conjunction with DAM) is identical to the registration in the DAM system. PIM and DAM can be used together or run as individual applications.

Each customer system includes privacy regulations according to the GDPR. Registered users must agree to this regulation. Without consent, registration is not possible.

2. Step: Email Confirmation (Double Opt-In)

If the registration is valid, an email is sent to the registered email address. The link sent serves as verification of the user and the valid email address. Only if the user confirms can the registration process continue.

Double Opt-In refers to the procedure of verifying the email address and a "human" triggering of a verification link via email within a certain time (the link expires after a while) to increase security. This makes it more difficult for bots and script-driven hacks to compromise user accounts.

3. Step: Review by Internal Admin

Now the internal process of reviewing the lawful registration and assigning rights according to customer specifications takes place. Depending on the customer system, this can take hours to days.

4. Step: Activation or Rejection

In the final step, the user receives confirmation of their registration and can then log in with their individual access data.

In principle, there can also be a rejection. The user will be informed about this as well.

Never share your access data with others. Do not send passwords or access data via email or chat.