PIM Preparation

Notions about what PIM means and what functions as a PIM system varies greatly from company to company. Some have dealt with it intensively, others are only vaguely familiar with it, while some have no idea. It is therefore important to develop a common definition of PIM that everyone involved understands and shares.

Set specific timeframes for the implementation of functions and processes. If these targets are unrealistic, this can be discussed in advance. Acceptance of the project increases if milestones are reached in line with the customer’s expectations and progress is visible.

Formulate your requirements in the form of user stories to avoid only optimizing current ways of working. User stories should reflect the business need and take the form: “As a [role], I want [goal/desier] so that [benefit].” Example: “As a marketing manager, I want to be able to update product information easily so that I can react quickly to market changes.”

Define the actual process for product data management before the PIM implementation. The complete process often only becomes clear during the project. Early consolidation saves time and helps establish all roles and tasks.

Ensure that adequate budget and resources are allotted for PIM introduction or optimization. Remember that internal stakeholders must also be given enough time. A “we can manage that on the side” approach often leads to delays and unreliability.