Why Most PIM Systems Struggle with ACES and PIES (and How to Fix It)
Managing product data can be a complex task for any company. Auto Care Data, specifically ACES and PIES, ensures the supply chain runs smoothly. Many companies use Product Information Management (PIM), but several systems are not designed to meet the specific needs of automotive fitment data.
This disconnect can cause significant problems, including inaccurate listings and lost sales. It can also lead to frustrated customers. The first step to finding a solution is understanding why these systems fail. Let’s explore the most common challenges and learn how to overcome them.
The Core Challenge: Generic PIMs vs. Automobile Needs
Most PIM systems have been designed to manage product-related information such as descriptions, prices, and images. These systems do a good job of centralizing information for various consumer goods. They lack the architecture required to deal with the complex relational nature of ACES and PIES data.
It’s not just about the part; it’s also about how it fits. This requires a deep, layered understanding of vehicle configurations–year, make, model, engine, and more. Generic systems do not have the logic built in to effectively manage this “many-to many” relationship between vehicles and parts.
PIM Systems that fall short
The gap between a PIM standard and the Auto Care Data Standard is evident when you examine the details. These systems struggle with validation, structure, and the sheer volume of data.
1. Unable to validate against ACES Standards
ACES (Aftermarket Catalog Exchange Standard) is based on a vast, continuously updated vehicle configuration database. Your fitment data must be perfectly aligned with this database to be valid.
This validation is not possible with a standard PIM. The system cannot check whether a vehicle configuration or part type suits a particular application. It will create an invalid ACES XMLFile, which will be rejected and cause costly delays and rework.
2. Managing complex PIES data
While ACES is primarily concerned with fitment, PIES (Product Information Exchange Standard) covers all other aspects of a part – over 70 data points. Dimensions, weights, and hazardous material information are all included. Also, the country of origin is listed.
PIES Data are incredibly detailed. A generic PIM may be able to store some of these attributes, but often does not have the fields or structure that the PIES standard requires. It’s like trying to squeeze a square peg into a round hole.
3. Lack of a Centralized, Relational Database
ACES data is powerful because it can link a part number with a vehicle. A single part may fit hundreds of different configurations. Standard PIM systems struggle to manage these complex connections.
A relational database is essential for this. Without it, you will have redundant data entry and increased human error. Your system won’t be able to scale up as your product catalogue grows. A system capable of managing automotive data must understand how an update to one part will cascade throughout all applications.
How To Fix The Problem
You don’t have to start over if your PIM system isn’t working. Enhancing your existing systems by adding tools designed specifically for the automotive industry is important. The goal is a seamless workflow to manage ACES data.
Three practical steps are available to resolve the problem:
- Integrate an Integrated Fitment Management Tool: Instead of replacing your entire PIM system, search for a solution specializing in ACES or PIES management. These platforms can be integrated with existing systems. These platforms handle all the heavy lifting, such as validating data with the VCdb or Qdb, managing parts-to-vehicle relations, and generating compliant export files.
- Automated Data Validation: An automated tool will automate validation. It ensures all ACES or PIES information you create is accurate and compliant before it’s sent to your trading partners. This proactive approach can save countless hours in manual checks and corrections.
- Centralize your Automotive Data Source: Use a specialized tool to be the source of truth for fitment and attribute information. This platform will be the central hub for all things Auto Care Data. This central hub can pull the automotive data from your PIM system when required.
Going Beyond “Good Enough Solution”
A generic PIM is not the best solution for managing your ACES/PIES data. It will lead to inefficiency and mistakes. Automotive aftermarket data needs are unique and require a specialized solution.
Integrating a dedicated platform for fitment management empowers your team to create, validate, and distribute accurate PIES data confidently. It streamlines internal operations and strengthens relationships with retailers and distributors, ultimately increasing sales. Adopt a PIM that understands the language used in the automotive aftermarket and stop forcing it to perform tasks it was not designed for.
