The ultimate PIM replatforming checklist: 7 key steps

Signs that you should replatform your PIM

Staying aligned with evolving standards and functionalities is crucial for sustained success. Recognizing when it's time to replatform your PIM system requires a keen eye for certain signs. Here are some questions to guide your assessment and ensure your PIM strategy remains robust and adaptable:

• Is our current PIM system struggling to handle our growing product data volume?
• Have we experienced any performance issues or downtime with our current PIM system?
• Is our current PIM system able to scale effectively to accommodate our business growth?
• Is our current PIM system built on outdated technology?
• Does our current PIM system lack essential modern features and functionalities?
• Are there any usability issues or pain points with our current PIM system?
• Are there any features or improvements that our team members have requested to enhance their user experience?
• Does our current PIM system integrate well with other systems in our tech stack?
• Have we experienced any challenges with data silos or inefficiencies due to integration issues?
• Are we satisfied with the level of support provided by our current PIM vendor?
• Are we experiencing any security concerns or breaches with our current PIM system, and do we have confidence in its implemented security measures?
• Are we experiencing higher-than-expected costs associated with our current PIM system?
• Have we identified any areas where we could reduce costs or optimize expenses related to our PIM system?
• How are we leveraging analytics and reporting data from our current PIM system to inform business decisions?

Navigating the PIM replatforming process: A step-by-step guide

1. Assessment of current PIM system
   
   Before diving into replatforming, it's crucial to comprehensively assess your current PIM system. This evaluation should extend beyond its technical capabilities to encompass its alignment with overarching business objectives. Engage stakeholders across departments to gain diverse perspectives on pain points and strengths. This holistic understanding will serve as a solid foundation for defining objectives and requirements.
   
   
2. Defining objectives and requirements.
   
   Clearly define your objectives for replatforming your PIM system. It’s vital to have a well-defined plan and purpose to use PIM effectively. PIM should align with and support your company's goals. For example, if data accuracy is an issue, specify the level of accuracy required and how it will be measured. Similarly, if streamlining workflows is a priority, outline the key processes that need improvement and the desired outcomes. By aligning the PIM strategy with these objectives, you can optimize the use of the system.
   
   
3. Researching and evaluating potential solutions
   
   In the quest to replatform a PIM system, a critical misstep is rushing through the selection process without due diligence. PIM platforms can vary in terms of their features and capabilities, necessitating thorough research and evaluation. This involves examining provider choices and deployment models, such as on-premises versus SaaS, to align with organizational needs. Considering factors like built-in integrations, standard features, scalability, and choosing the right implementation partner ensures efficient implementation and long-term support for evolving business requirements.
   
   
4. Planning the migration process
   
   A well-thought-out migration plan lays the groundwork for a seamless transition to the new PIM system. Break down the process into actionable steps, outlining timelines, dependencies, and resource requirements. Anticipate potential challenges and devise contingency plans to mitigate risks. Effective communication of the plan to stakeholders ensures alignment and fosters a collaborative approach to execution.
   
   
5. Data migration and integration
   
   Data lies at the heart of any PIM system, making meticulous attention to data migration and integration imperative. Establish robust processes for extracting, cleansing, and transforming data to ensure its integrity and relevance in the new system. Seamless integration with existing systems is equally critical for maintaining business continuity and maximizing the new PIM system's value proposition.
   
   
6. Testing and validation
   
   Testing and validation are key steps in the replatforming process to ensure the new PIM system runs seamlessly. Rigorous testing across various scenarios, including functionality, data accuracy, and performance, is essential to uncover any issues. Involving end-users in the testing process validates system usability and fosters user adoption by addressing feedback proactively. Through meticulous validation, potential issues can be identified and resolved at an earlier stage.
   
   
7. Deployment and post-launch optimization
   
   As you set out to upgrade your PIM system, deployment marks a critical phase. Offering comprehensive training and support ensures a smooth transition for users. Following the launch, closely monitoring system performance and user feedback becomes imperative. By incorporating effective change management practices, you can continually fine-tune the system, seizing optimization opportunities to remain aligned with your organization's objectives. 

Benefits of replatforming

Replatforming your Product Information Management (PIM) system can offer several benefits:

• Enhanced scalability: A new platform can accommodate growing amounts of product data and adapt to increased business demands without sacrificing performance.
• Improved performance: Replatforming often involves leveraging modern technologies and architectures, leading to faster data processing, quicker response times, and better overall system performance.
• Advanced features: New PIM platforms frequently come with updated features and functionalities, such as advanced analytics, AI-powered data enrichment, and workflow automation, which can streamline processes and improve productivity.
• Better integration: A replatformed PIM system can be designed to seamlessly integrate with other business systems, such as ERP, CRM, or ecommerce platforms, facilitating data flow across the organization and reducing manual data entry and errors.
• Enhanced user experience: A more intuitive and user-friendly interface allows employees to navigate and manage product information more efficiently, leading to increased adoption and productivity.
• Shorter time to market: Replatforming can streamline product information management processes, reducing bottlenecks and accelerating product launches, enabling your business to respond faster to market demands.
• Cost savings: Although replatforming has initial costs, the long-run benefits of improved efficiency, reduced manual work, and better decision-making can lead to significant cost savings.
• Compliance and security: Replatforming can address any compliance or security concerns by implementing robust security measures and ensuring adherence to industry regulations, protecting sensitive product data from breaches or unauthorized access.

Get your PIM in shape: Upgrade with Contentserv

Elevate PIM from a pure product data backend to a sales driver with Contentserv’s Product Experience Cloud (PXC). Leveraging advanced AI technology, our platform seamlessly consolidates and centralizes product data, ensuring unmatched consistency and accuracy across all channels. Say goodbye to outdated systems and hello to a future where success is just a click away! 

Upgrading with Contentserv isn't just about getting a PIM — it's about unlocking boundless opportunities. Experience:

• Consolidated and centralized data: Easily unify product information from multiple sources, ensuring every detail is spot-on and up-to-date while saving you time and effort.
• Integration and syndication: Seamlessly integrate with your existing systems and effortlessly publish product information across all channels, from your website to your social media platforms, and beyond — hello, brand consistency!
• Streamlined workflows: Customize workflows to fit your unique needs, eliminating tedious tasks and allowing your team to work smarter, not harder.
• Enhanced customer experience: Delight your customers with personalized, consistent product experiences that keep them coming back for more, all while boosting your brand's reputation and loyalty.
• Improved ROI: Boost your bottom line by maximizing efficiency, reducing time-to-market, and driving revenue growth — now that's what we call a win-win!

As highlighted in the referenced Forrester report, “PIM is now a core capability for any enterprise that sells products in the market.” Replatforming your PIM system is a crucial step in navigating today's rapidly evolving digital landscape. By replacing your outdated PIM system with a modern solution, you're setting the stage for smoother operations, increased efficiency, and better buying experiences.