ETIM and ERP – How is the ETIM standard integrated with ERP product data?

What is ETIM and how does it relate to ERP systems?

ETIM (ElectroTechnical Information Model) is a product data standard that defines product classes, features, and values. ERP systems, on the other hand, typically manage core product data such as product codes, prices, and stock information.

When ETIM is connected to ERP product data, technical product characteristics can be linked to products stored in the ERP system in a standardized format.

The ETIM structure includes, for example:

• ETIM classes – the technical category of a product

• Features – the technical specifications of a product

• Values – in some cases the exact values of the features

• Units – for example mm, kg, V, or W

This structure makes it possible to connect ERP product data with technical product data in a way that works across different systems.

Why is connecting ETIM data to an ERP system often challenging?

Although ERP often contains a lot of product data, ERP systems are generally not designed for standardizing technical product data in an ETIM structure.

Typical challenges include, for example:

• the structure of ERP product data does not match ETIM classifications

• technical characteristics are scattered across different fields

• the ERP does not support the hierarchy of ETIM classes and features

• converting data into ETIM format requires manual work

• the same product data is needed in several different systems

For this reason, many companies use a product information management solution alongside their ERP system, designed specifically for standardizing technical product data.

A PIM solution between ETIM and ERP data

Often the most effective way to connect ETIM and ERP is to use a PIM system (Product Information Management) between them.

A PIM is designed specifically for structured product data management, allowing the ERP system to focus on operational data while the PIM manages technical product data.

With a PIM solution, it is possible to:

• connect ERP product data to ETIM classifications

• manage technical features in a standardized way

• convert data into an ETIM structure

• share product data with other systems

• automate product data updates and distribution

Summary: ETIM and ERP often need a separate product data management layer

ERP systems are an important part of business operations, but using the ETIM standard with ERP data often requires a separate structure for technical product data.

When ETIM and ERP are connected correctly, the same product data can be used efficiently across different systems, datapool services, online stores, and partner environments.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about the ETIM and ERP connection

Can the ETIM standard be used directly in an ERP system?
In some ERP systems, ETIM support is possible, but in many cases technical product data management is handled through a separate system.

Why is ETIM usually not part of an ERP system?
ERP is designed for operational business processes, whereas ETIM focuses on standardizing technical product data.

Can ERP data be converted into an ETIM structure?
Yes. ERP product data can be converted into an ETIM structure when a system is used that supports ETIM classes, features, and values.

What is ETIM data used for in addition to ERP?
ETIM data is used, for example, in online stores, datapool services, design systems, and partner systems.

How do ETIM and ERP work in Pimmix?

Pimmix is a product information management solution designed to connect ERP product data and the ETIM standard efficiently.

The ETIM standard is built into the Pimmix system, making it easy to convert a company’s own product data into an ETIM structure. This includes, among other things:

• ETIM classifications

• technical specifications

• feature values

The ETIM standard is connected to the system through an API interface. Once the standard is available in the system, a company’s own product data can be converted into an ETIM structure automatically, either when data is imported into the system or when it is exported further to other systems and stakeholders.

Markus Rahkonen

Co-founder

"Get in touch and we will show you how Pimmix can connect ERP product data to the ETIM standard and automate the management of technical product data across different systems."

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