PIM for SMEs – What to Consider?

Category: Product Information Management (PIM)

Professional omnichannel commerce is no longer just for large corporations. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly benefiting from digital solutions to manage product data efficiently. A PIM system – Product Information Management – helps centralize, organize, and distribute product information across all channels. This article explains why a PIM system is essential for SMEs and what to consider when choosing the right solution.

With a PIM system, you can present product information consistently across websites, online shops, marketplaces, and physical stores. At the same time, PIM simplifies collaboration with suppliers and retailers, as all data is maintained centrally and delivered in the correct formats.

MarketsandMarkets estimates the global PIM market size is expected to grow from USD 9.0 billion in 2020 to USD 16.0 billion by 2025, at a CAGR of 12.2%. Major growth factors include rising demand from the eCommerce industry and the need to offer enhanced customer services.

Source: MarketsAndMarkets, Global Forecast for PIM, 2021

How PIM Supports Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises

In the past, many SMEs could not afford a PIM system due to high acquisition costs and complex integration. Today, flexible cloud solutions can be implemented quickly and provide immediate value. Key benefits include:

• Centralized Product Information: All product data is stored in one place – descriptions, images, and videos – giving teams access to up-to-date information at all times.
• Multichannel Publishing: Ensure consistent product information across all channels – online shop, marketplace, app, or print catalog.
• Efficient Collaboration: Suppliers, retailers, and internal teams access the same data, avoid duplicate work, and improve data quality.
• Increased Productivity: Automated processes save time, reduce errors, and make teams more efficient.

From the start of this decade, there are around 2.1 billion digital buyers worldwide, and this trend is expected to continue growing steadily.

Source: Statista, Number of Digital Buyers Worldwide, 2021

What SMEs Should Consider When Choosing PIM Software

The PIM market is very diverse. SMEs face the challenge of selecting the right solution from many providers. Before making a decision, consider the following criteria:

• User-Friendliness: Intuitive interface, clear navigation, easy transition from Excel or outdated systems, and seamless integration with ERP, CRM, and DAM systems.
• Centralized Data Capture: Manage all product information in one place, including images, videos, and catalogs – achieving a Single Source of Truth.
• Content Syndication: Consistently publish content across all channels – online shop, marketplaces, apps, or print. A good PIM solution supports multi-channel strategies simultaneously.
• Cost & Licensing: Consider SaaS vs. On-Premises, features, and user count. Typical SME prices range from €500–5,000 per month. Choose only the features you truly need.
• Customer Support: Early-stage implementation can be challenging. Check whether the provider offers updates, training, and support to ensure a successful PIM rollout.

Quick checklist: user-friendly, centralized data, multichannel publishing, reasonable costs, reliable support.

Conclusion: PIM for SMEs – Efficient, Scalable, and Future-Proof

SMEs face the challenge of managing product information consistently, efficiently, and across multiple channels. A modern PIM system centralizes data, facilitates collaboration, and ensures a consistent customer experience – from online shops to marketplaces and physical retail.

Choosing the right PIM software is crucial: it should be user-friendly, flexible, and tailored to your business needs. This enables process optimization, increased productivity, and unforgettable customer experiences.

Get started today: discover in a free online demo how prodexa PIM can streamline processes, save time, and boost your revenue.