Synkka, GS1 and PIM – how they relate to each other in product information management

What role Synkka, GS1, and a PIM system play

Synkka is a product data sharing service, GS1 defines the standard for product data, and a PIM system works as the environment where product data is collected, managed, and prepared before distribution.

Synkka as a product data distribution channel

Synkka works as a platform through which companies can share product data with retailers and receive it from suppliers. However, it is not an actual product data management system, but instead focuses on transmitting data in a standardized format.

The importance of the GS1 standard

GS1 defines the structure, fields, and identifiers of product data. This makes it possible for product data to be shared consistently between different parties.

At the same time, this means that a company’s own product data often needs to be adapted to the GS1 structure before it can be used in Synkka.

The role of a PIM system in product data management

A PIM (Product Information Management) system works as an environment where product data can be:

• collected from different sources
• managed centrally
• structured and normalized
• enriched and completed
• prepared for different channels

A PIM does not replace Synkka, but complements it by bringing product data management into one place.

Why Synkka alone is not enough for product data management

Many companies notice that although Synkka enables product data sharing, it does not solve the challenges of product data management.

Typical situations include:

• product data is scattered across different systems
• data must be collected from multiple sources before Synkka
• conversion into the GS1 structure is done manually
• data retrieved from Synkka does not directly fit internal use

In these cases, a separate solution is needed for product data management.

How Pimmix connects Synkka, GS1, and PIM

Pimmix works as a PIM system that combines product data management and distribution into one whole.

With Pimmix, companies can:

• collect product data from different sources
• manage product data centrally
• use the GS1 standard structure as part of the system
• convert product data into GS1 format or from it into an internal model
• retrieve product data from Synkka
• deliver product data to Synkka

This makes it possible for Synkka to be part of a broader product data management process instead of a separate process.

Synkka, GS1, and PIM as part of the same whole

When Synkka, GS1, and PIM work together, product data management becomes significantly more efficient.

A company can:

• manage product data in one place
• use the GS1 standard without manual work
• receive and deliver product data smoothly
• use the same product data across multiple channels

In that case, product data management is not based on individual integrations, but on one consistent whole.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about Synkka, GS1, and PIM as a whole

What is the difference between Synkka and a PIM system?
Synkka is a product data distribution channel, while a PIM system is a tool for managing and preparing product data before distribution.

What is the GS1 standard needed for?
GS1 defines the structure of product data so that the data can be shared consistently between different systems and parties.

Can a PIM system replace Synkka?
No. A PIM system does not replace Synkka, but complements it by bringing product data management into one place.

Can product data be retrieved from and delivered to Synkka through a PIM?
Yes. Through a PIM system, product data can both be retrieved from Synkka and delivered there.

Markus Rahkonen

Co-founder

"Synkka, GS1, and PIM are often mixed up, even though they solve different things. Synkka distributes product data, GS1 defines the structure, and PIM manages the data before that. When these are connected in the right way, product data management becomes much clearer and more efficient."

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