To Buy PIM or Not – Top Questions to Ask When Looking for PIM

Enter PIM (a segue that has been used before, but it is more relevant now than ever before, so why not!).

180 zettabytes – that’s right! That’s the amount of data that’s going to be doing the rounds by 2025 (Statista).

product information management (PIM) systems are becoming a vital asset for businesses. As we move toward 2025, with an expected data explosion reaching 180 zettabytes (Statista), the volume of product data is also poised to grow exponentially. The increasing demand for digital commerce only amplifies the need for streamlined product data management, making PIM systems a crucial part of your digital strategy.

What is PIM and Why is It Essential?

Product Information Management (PIM) software acts as a centralized control system for handling all your product data. From data ingestion and management to enrichment and distribution, a PIM solution ensures data accuracy and consistency across all touchpoints—whether you’re dealing with stakeholders, marketplaces, or customers. It transforms product data into a universal language that enables better collaboration and enhances customer experience. If you’re still questioning the role of PIM in your digital commerce strategy, it’s time to reconsider.

However, despite the numerous advantages, choosing the wrong PIM system can lead to a series of issues. Whether it’s poor implementation, inflexible technology, or technical debt, several pitfalls can diminish the benefits of PIM. So, before making your decision, asking the right questions is essential to ensure that you’re investing in a solution that meets your business needs.

Top Questions to Ask When Evaluating PIM Software

1. How Easy Will Implementation Be?

Implementation is the cornerstone of a successful PIM system. Failure to properly implement can lead to extensive downtime and delayed returns on investment. You should inquire about the entire implementation process—how seamless it will be, how long it will take, and what kind of post-implementation support you’ll receive. Understanding these details helps you minimize disruptions and ensure a smoother transition.

2. What About Integration Capabilities?

A good PIM solution should integrate effortlessly with your existing business systems, such as content management systems (CMS), product catalogs, and digital marketplaces. Ask about the ease of integration and the expected time required. Don’t forget to inquire about APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) and whether the PIM system offers comprehensive APIs to facilitate information exchange with other systems.

3. How Does the PIM Handle Data Validation & Governance?

Managing thousands of SKUs requires robust data validation and governance features. Can the PIM automate validation processes to ensure data accuracy, completeness, and relevance? Look for a solution that provides actionable insights, detailed reporting, and the ability to set custom parameters for data measurement. This not only saves time but ensures your product data aligns with your customer experience goals.

4. How Will This Enhance Customer Experience?

Improving customer satisfaction is one of the primary reasons for investing in a PIM. How will the solution help you enhance the buying journey? Ask how it will reduce time-to-market and improve data quality across multiple sales channels. The ultimate goal is to reduce manual intervention, improve accuracy, and deliver a consistent and delightful customer experience.

5. Is the PIM Scalable?

With the continuous growth of digital commerce, your data needs will only increase. A scalable PIM solution is essential to accommodate future growth. Cloud-based PIM systems, particularly those following a SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) model, offer greater scalability. Be sure to assess how well the system can handle future data surges and growing product catalogs.

6. Is it User-Friendly?

One major factor that contributes to PIM success is usability. Just because the software is complex doesn’t mean it should be difficult to use. Many modern PIM systems are designed with UX and UI in mind to ensure ease of use. Ask about the learning curve, the duration of training, and the technical expertise required to operate the system effectively. The easier it is for your team to adopt, the faster you’ll realize value.

7. What Kind of Customer Success Support is Provided?

Post-implementation support is as crucial as the implementation itself. Customer success support goes beyond simple troubleshooting and focuses on ensuring you maximize the system’s capabilities. Ensure the PIM provider understands your business needs and provides ongoing guidance to help you optimize the system. This will significantly enhance the long-term ROI of your PIM investment.

8. Does the PIM Offer Add-Ons Like DAM and Syndication?

Many PIM solutions now offer additional features like digital asset management (DAM) and syndication tools that integrate seamlessly with various marketplaces. By bundling these features, you can potentially reduce costs while gaining a more comprehensive product data management system. Always check for flexible and composable solutions to avoid being stuck with unnecessary services.

9. Is the PIM Future-Proof with AI and Machine Learning?

Advanced technologies like AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning) are no longer futuristic concepts—they’re essential tools for businesses aiming to stay competitive. Ask if the PIM system can leverage AI/ML capabilities for better data management, predictive analytics, and automation. Forward-thinking businesses are already using these tools to minimize errors, optimize processes, and improve customer experiences.

Conclusion

The decision to invest in a PIM system isn’t one to be taken lightly. By asking these critical questions, you can ensure that your chosen solution aligns with your business needs, enhances customer experience, and remains scalable for the future. If you’re still unsure or need expert guidance, feel free to reach out to our team at Amaze PXM to discuss how we can help you find the best PIM for your organization.