Should you implement your PIM or eCommerce platform first?

Considering a switch in your ecommerce platform?

Wondering about the timing of implementing a PIM, or whether you even need one?

Most customers I speak to are embarking on significant digital transformations, and at some point in their roadmap are re-platforming or implementing eCommerce, as well as considering a new PIM.

Timing is a key consideration in this strategic decision. Should you integrate a PIM before, during, or after an e-commerce re-platform? Here's my take:

Implementing PIM before eCommerce

Implementing a PIM system before transitioning to a new e-commerce platform sets a strong foundation. It has a number of benefits:

• it allows you to clean, organise, and enrich your product data - getting it accurate, complete and consistent ready for your shiny new eCommerce platform and front end.
• it enables a much smoother migration process - because you will integrate a clean, enriched source of the truth once, rather than retrospectively fitting your PIM data model into your eCommerce platform
• it often cuts down on double integration effort, in that you will not have to build one set of integrations to your old platform and then one to your new

Suffice to say, this doesn't mean you absolutely need a PIM. In fact, often a full data cleanse and enrichment of your current product data can achieve similar results on your new front end.

Implementing PIM during eCommerce

Integrating a PIM system simultaneously with your e-commerce re-platform can be a strategic move. It enables you to streamline processes, centralise product information, and enhance data governance while building your new online b2b or b2c platform. Whilst a large invesment, this can

• accelerate time-to-market with faster processes
• provide all the customer experience benefits from day one as above
• aligns your product data model design with your front end eCommerce build in terms of product structures and attribute model - this one is really beneficial!
• aligns your integration architecture and delivery between PIM and eCommerce

Implementing PIM after eCommerce

Implementing a PIM system post e-commerce re-platform can still yield significant benefits. It allows you to refine your product data management strategy based on insights gained from the new platform. While this approach may require additional effort to migrate and align data, it

• presents an opportunity to optimise product data processes as you mature in your new eCommerce platform landscape
• allows you to garner insight from customers on their requirements for a great product experience to aid product discovery and purchase

Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific business goals, resources, and timelines. I often see a lack of appetite to do both things at once from an investment risk perspective - as well as a delivery perspective.

My advice:

• if you embark on a eCommerce re-platform or new platform, make sure you create a product data cleaning & enrichment work stream from the beginning and budget for this - regardless of whether you do PIM at the same time or not!

If you are struggling with the quality and completeness of your product data - and this is letting down your new eCommerce customer experience, or delaying your project - give me a shout!