Ravensburger underwent a comprehensive 6-month evaluation process, ultimately selecting Contentserv with SDZeCOM as the implementation partner from a pool of 30 options. Implementation begin in mid-2019, starting with mapping all core processes from Ravensburger's previous publishing software in the PIM solution, enabling a complete switch from the old system. The transition extended to the BRIO team and gradually the new system was integrated across all international subsidiaries.
From the outset, Ravensburger took a very organized approach, setting up fixed roles and a dedicated team to support and develop product information management beyond the initial implementation. At the start of the project, Ravensburger first developed a basic data model and configured relevant software modules and interfaces including integrating catalog creation with an InDesign connection. Key sales channels such as websites, online stores, and marketplaces were directly connected to Contentserv for automatic data updates.
To further enhance the PIM solution, Ravensburger implemented SDZeCOM's Productivity Solutions. These seamlessly integrate into Contentserv PIM and expand the range of functions and services to meet industry-specific requirements. Ravensburger uses the Rules module for automated data quality checks, which can be displayed on items and dashboards. The company also employs the Staging module, transforming source data to meet specific Contentserv requirements.
Additionally, the GenericDocs module supports diverse output formats, allowing Ravensburger to create customizable export formats using placeholders pulled from the PIM system.
Other modules in use are:
- AdvancedSearch
- Archiving of assets
- Hotfolder
- Integration Suite
- Joblist
- SSO connection
- StringFunctions-Studio
Results that matter
The adoption of Contentserv's PIM solution has already significantly streamlined day-to-day operations at Ravensburger. It provided a consolidated view of the product information and facilitated easy dissemination, including direct download links for retailers not yet integrated via interfaces. Particularly given the traditional industry environment, it was important for Ravensburger to remain flexible when providing data and to meet the respective requirements of its partners.
With Contentserv, the company can now deliver product information with pinpoint accuracy thus strengthening its business presence. Data management for around 4,000 products in up to 40 languages has been significantly simplified and accelerated. A whole series of individual systems have been completely replaced, resulting in significant cost savings.
The next step, is to focus even more on efficiency: all processes and responsibilities related to product data management and associated marketing activities will continue to be clearly structured and optimized. After all, the team is aware that "a tool alone is only half the story when it comes to data quality."
