4 reasons why ETIM is important for your e-commerce

Vincent Hoogstad
Implementation Consultant
14 August 2024

In the world of e-commerce, delivering accurate and consistent product information is essential. It’s not just about creating a better customer experience, it also drives internal efficiency. That’s where the ElectroTechnical Information Model, better known as ETIM, plays a crucial role. In this insight, we explore four reasons why ETIM is a must-have for every e-commerce business in technical industries.

Not yet familiar with ETIM? This article breaks down what the ETIM classification model is all about.

ETIM explained: the key to standardized product data

1. Uniformity in product information

The importance of consistent data

One of the biggest advantages of ETIM is the uniformity it provides. E-commerce platforms that use the ETIM standards can provide their customers with standardised and consistent product information. This has several advantages:

  • Improved user experience: Customers experience a smoother shopping experience when product information is clear and consistent.
  • Reduced chance of errors: Standardisation minimises the chance of errors in product descriptions, leading to fewer returns and complaints.

Example of effective application

A webshop that implements ETIM standards can, for example, present technical specifications of products in a uniform way, allowing customers to easily compare and make decisions.

2. Efficiency in management and exchange of product information

Optimization of internal processes

By using ETIM, companies can manage their product information far more efficiently. The system enables you to:

  • Update data quickly – New product information can be rolled out and updated across multiple platforms with ease.
  • Simplify integration – ETIM streamlines integration between webshops, ERP systems, and datasheets, making product data management smoother and more consistent.

Practical impact

For example, when a product update occurs, the information can be instantly and uniformly adjusted across the webshop, ERP system, and all other connected platforms, without inconsistencies.

3. International compatibility

Benefits on a global scale

The international recognition of ETIM creates major benefits for e-commerce companies operating in different markets:

  • Simplify cross-border trade: ETIM makes it easier to offer products in international markets without confusion over product specifications.
  • Uniform language: ETIM provides a common language for technical products, facilitating communication between different markets.

International examples

A Dutch company offering its products in Germany and France will have less difficulty with the technical translation of product data thanks to ETIM.

4. Future-proof

Ready for the future with ETIM

By adopting ETIM, e-commerce companies take a step towards future-proofing:

  • Continuous updates: ETIM is continuously updated to meet new market requirements and technological developments.
  • Adaptive to innovations: Companies using ETIM can more easily innovate and adapt their systems to new technologies.

Long-term benefits

An e-commerce company that invests in ETIM today will be less affected by changing market conditions and can respond more quickly to future trends.

So...

ETIM is more than just a classification standard; it is an essential tool for e-commerce companies striving for efficiency.