The 8 most important features every PIM system should have

A PIM system should allow for the centralization of all product data in one place, so you can avoid having to update various systems and spreadsheets each time a new product is added. Collecting information such as product descriptions, images, prices, attributes, and related documents is a crucial feature that any PIM system should have. Once you have all the product information in one place, you can ensure consistency and accuracy across all sales channels. 

A good PIM system should offer the ability to create flexible data models that can be tailored to the company's specific needs and product assortment. This makes it possible to structure the product information in a logical and cohesive manner, which eases both management and searching. 

The ability to classify and categorize products in a logical way is crucial for facilitating navigation for both internal users and customers - and definitely something you should look for when choosing a PIM system. A good PIM system can establish and manage product categories as well as add attributes and tags for further organization. 

If your company operates across multiple languages or markets, multilingualism is probably crucial for you—and therefore also something you should look for when choosing a PIM system. Some PIM systems can handle translations and localized content—and such a PIM system would be ideal for a company that serves customers in multiple languages. 

Besides product data, a PIM system should also be able to manage digital assets such as images, videos, and documents. This includes features like image management, metadata tagging, versioning, and rights management to ensure proper use and distribution of digital assets. 

A PIM system is most valuable if it can integrate seamlessly with other existing systems and tools, such as e-commerce platforms, ERP systems, and CRM systems. This facilitates data exchange and ensures a coherent business process across all systems.

For many companies, the ability to create and manage workflows and processes will also be crucial for effective management of product information in a PIM system. A good PIM system should offer tools to define user roles, create workflow rules, and track changes to ensure control and compliance with guidelines.

Finally, a PIM system should provide the ability to analyze and report on product performance and the effectiveness of product information. This includes features like data visualization, key metrics, and customized reports to help companies make informed decisions and optimize their product strategy. 

When choosing a PIM system, it is essential to consider which features you need and which you can do without—this largely depends on the type of company you are, what products you sell, and who your customers are. These 8 features are a good start, but there may be other features that are important specifically for you—so we can only encourage you to map out your needs thoroughly before deciding on a specific PIM system.