When it comes to technical products, we often encounter the term 'ETIM classification' in relation to e-commerce and product information. In this blog, we explain what this term means and how this classification can help your B2B webshop serve your customers better.
What is ETIM?
ETIM classification, or the Electrical Engineering Information Model, acts as a standard for product information in the electrical engineering sector. Its purpose is twofold: a classification of electrotechnical products and a (structurally) better product description.
The basic principles of ETIM classification focus on structured registration and exchange of product information. Products are grouped into various categories and subcategories, in which specific characteristics, properties and technical data are recorded. This creates a clear and understandable structure for recording and sharing information about products.
How does an ETIM classification work?
To make use of an ETIM classification, it is necessary to process data in your B2B webshop. Here, using a PIM system, such as Akeneo or Ergonode, is important. This system ensures effective and well-structured processing of product information. This way, this information is not only easily and quickly accessible to customers, but also to those responsible for managing and enriching product data in the webshop.
Integrating ETIM data into a PIM system involves several steps:
- Importing ETIM data into the PIM system:
- a .csv file in the cloud;
- an API integration with other systems;
- uploading files manually.
- Cleaning up and classifying ETIM data:
- This involves cleaning up and classifying the ETIM data, possibly with additional features. This ensures unambiguous and easily manageable data, which can later be integrated into the B2B webshop.
- Synchronisation with the webshop:
- The data in the PIM system is synchronised with the B2B webshop via an API integration.
Setting up the PIM system and then data enrichment:
- The PIM system is set up and the specific data is enriched to create a rich and attractive product presentation on the web shop.
Finally, the search functionality on the webshop is based on the classified and labelled ETIM data. This promotes user-friendliness and ensures that data remain up-to-date, both in the PIM system and in the webshop.
What are the benefits of an ETIM classification?
The benefits of an ETIM classification in a nutshell:
- Better user experience. Because products now have improved and more comprehensive product specifications, customers are able to determine more quickly whether a product is suitable for them. This contributes to the user experience for customers in the B2B webshop;
- Time savings. Product information is standardised, including technical product characteristics. This minimises erroneous orders and promotes efficient communication with customers and partners, as everyone uses the same data. Moreover, duplication of effort is avoided, as data is entered only once. This is particularly valuable for companies with an extensive and monthly varying online product range;
- Regulatory compliance. Outside electrical engineering, other industries also benefit from specific information, for example allergy information in the food industry. By providing this data, companies comply with such regulations.
How is ETIM set up for a B2B webshop?
The most appropriate place to set your ETIM classification is within your PIM system. This is where the classification is added and products are linked to the correct ETIM families. Integration with your PIM system, such as Akeneo or Ergonode, ensures that this data is correctly transferred to your B2B webshop.
Want to know more about ETIM classifications?
Would you like to know more about ETIM or how to use ETIM for your B2B webshop? Or would you like to discover the advantages of ETIM for yourself via a demo? Then don't hesitate to contact with us.
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