Still need developers to set up a SaaS PIM system?
When implementing a SaaS PIM system, a common question is: Do we still need developers? Or can we just rely on the solution's built-in functionality?
We answer this question using a number of topics that are covered in a PIM implementation carried out by a PIM consultant.
Customisation of the PIM environment
A SaaS PIM system offers many standard features that you can use quickly. But no company is the same, and sometimes specific customisations are needed to meet your unique requirements. Senior PIM consultants can customise the interface, workflows and features of the PIM system to perfectly fit your business processes. This not only increases efficiency, but also ensures a better user experience.
Integrations with other systems
A PIM system does not usually work in isolation. It needs to integrate with other business software, such as ERP, CRM, DAM and e-commerce solutions. Our PIM Masters as advisers. In a 100% SaaS solution, their role shifts from executive to advisory tasks. They guide integration processes, advise on the required integrations, and ensure that APIs and other integration methods are implemented correctly. This ensures that data and processes are seamlessly synchronised between different systems, leading to improved operational efficiency.
Data migration and data management
Transferring existing product data to a new PIM system can be a complex and time-consuming task. The PIM consultant performs the data migration, using scripts and tools that automate the migration process. This makes it faster and significantly reduces the risk of errors.
Data validation and cleansing
Before data is moved to the new system, it needs to be validated and cleansed. This is an important step where Senior PIM consultants play an important role to check the data for consistency and correctness and resolve any issues. This ensures data quality and allows the system to perform optimally.
Configuration and maintenance
Setting up user roles and rights
Another important aspect of the PIM system is setting up user roles and access rights. Together with a PIM consultant, roles are defined and configured so that the right people have access to the right information. This not only increases security but also the efficiency of your business processes.
Maintenance and updates
Although a SaaS solution often requires less maintenance than an on-premises system, support remains essential for implementing updates, bug fixes, and adding new functionalities. PIM consultants ensure that the system remains up-to-date and functioning optimally and that users can work with all new features.
Process optimisation, workflow and automation
Workflow automation
A PIM system can automate many tasks, such as product data enrichment, approval processes and publishing to different channels. Senior PIM consultants help set up these workflows, making your business processes more efficient and reducing the risk of human error.
Performance optimisation
As your PIM system grows, it is important to ensure that the system continues to perform. Senior PIM consultants optimise the system for speed and efficiency so that it continues to meet the demands of a growing business.
Conclusion
Although SaaS PIM systems offer many standard functionalities, the role of both technical specialists and senior PIM consultants is crucial in customising, integrating and optimising the system. Technical specialists perform the data migration and shift their role to an advisory role in integrations, while senior PIM consultants take on the other tasks described. Together, they ensure successful implementation and smooth operation of your PIM system.
In a 100% SaaS solution, the role of technical specialists shifts more towards consulting. They are the strategic partners who help companies make the right technical decisions and maximise the benefits of the PIM system. Their expertise is indispensable for ensuring the long-term success of your PIM solution.
So it is clear: even with the best SaaS solution on your side, the expertise of technical specialists and PIM consultants remains a valuable addition to your team, but purely developers, no!
So are developers completely redundant? No, when you need adjustments in the data management process that is not supported by the SaaS PIM solution, you will generally solve this outside the PIM system by creating a microservice. Then it is useful to involve a developer.