How do you choose the right PIM system for your organization? We will help you on your way!

Stijn Kievit
Senior Implementation Consultant
11 July 2025

You have tied the knot: something needs to change within your organisation. Product information is fragmented and nobody knows which data is actually correct. Existing systems are misused to show customers some product data anyway. It is high time to take serious steps in your product information management.

Maar nu begint de echte uitdaging: hoe selecteer je het juiste PIM-systeem? Geen zorgen, je bent niet de enige met deze vraag. Met onze 25 jaar ervaring en expertise helpen we je niet alleen door het doolhof van mogelijkheden, maar zorgen we ervoor dat je een PIM-systeem kiest dat naadloos aansluit op de behoeften en digitale ambities van jouw organisatie.

An unsuitable PIM system can lead to unnecessary complexity, inefficient shadowing processes or excessive licensing costs. You don't want that.

All PIM systems are the same, right?

A PIM system is indispensable for organisations that want to manage their product information in an efficient and structured way. But did you know that not every PIM system is the same? Compare choosing a PIM system to buying a car: there are all kinds of models and versions. Which one best suits your organisation depends entirely on your needs, ambitions and budget.

Types

Basic, standard or advanced: what do you need?

Most PIM packages are offered in various configurations, such as basic, standard and advanced. Each configuration offers a specific number of functionalities, user options, storage capacity and modules. That is why it is important to clarify in advance exactly what your organisation needs. For example, do you have a lot of users? Are extensive integration options a must? Or are you instead looking for a compact and simple system?

Data modelling: flexible or rigid?

Another important aspect of PIM systems is the way they structure product information. In other words, the data modelling. Some systems are modular and flexible, while others use a more fixed structure. Both approaches have their advantages, but the choice depends heavily on your product range, IT landscape, user needs and sales channels.

Additional functionality: which additional modules will you use?

Many PIM software vendors offer additional modules with functionalities. Think of standard integrations with external systems, translation services, printing solutions, AI tools, onboarding portals or download capabilities. These extras can greatly help streamline processes and reduce customisation. Just be aware that not every vendor offers the same modules.

Why the right choice is so important

An unsuitable package can lead to unnecessary complexity, low user acceptance, inefficient shadowing processes or excessive licensing costs. You don't want that. Therefore, take the time to determine what your organisation really needs and find a solution that fits your goals and business processes.

Extra functionaliteit

A PIM system is a gamechanger, but it is important to be well prepared and thought through.

Take advantage of our PIM services

Implementing a PIM system is a strategic consideration that is often complex. But we support you in doing so! XSARUS PIM Masters offers 3 services to help you at every stage of the selection process.

1. To PIM or not to PIM

Not every organisation is ready for a PIM system. Our first service is therefore aimed at answering the decisive question: is a PIM system currently the right solution for your organisation?

The benefits of a PIM system are endless, but it is only valuable if your organisation actually starts to exploit these benefits. Sometimes the challenges lie elsewhere, for instance in other systems, processes or a shortage of internal resources. During this analysis, we identify with you where the real bottlenecks lie. And whether a PIM system is the right investment. Read more.

2. Requirements Analysis: what does your organisation need?

If it turns out that a PIM system adds sufficient value, the next step is to determine the specific needs and requirements. You will need this to select the right system.

With our experience in implementing PIM systems (at more than 70 organisations in a variety of industries), we will help you create a detailed overview of requirements, preconditions and preferences. Be it integrations with existing systems, scalability or specific functionalities. We make sure your requirements are clear and complete. Read more.

Reguirements check
In the selection process, we not only selected a PIM, but perhaps equally important, an implementation partner. XSARUS turned out to have a lot of PIM expertise, speak our language and be able to empathise with our problems. We are confident of achieving a good implementation together with XSARUS.
Bart de Vries, IT architect at Amac

3. PIM Selection: choose the right system

The ball is in the court and all requirements are clear. Then it is time to select the PIM system with the best fit.

In this phase, we go deeper into your needs and compare them with the capabilities of the PIM systems. During interactive analysis sessions, we get you inspired by practical examples, define knock-out criteria and score the systems based on your specific situation. Read more.

Effective guidance towards a successful PIM system

A PIM system is a game-changer, but it is important to be well prepared and thought through. Our services are aimed at supporting your organisation in every step of the process, so that you can make the right choices with confidence. Taken separately or as a complete package, choose what suits your situation. Of course, we will also support you in the next steps: the implementation and continuous optimisation of your PIM system.