With advancements in technology, businesses are better able to connect on a global level unlike ever before. With access to the cloud, retailers, consumers, and marketers are more connected than ever. While this connection is beneficial on several levels, it also increases the pressure to ensure that data is accurate, consistent, and remains secure and private. A breach in any of these aspects can have negative consequences when it comes to sales, decision-making, and customer retention.
To prevent these problems, more businesses are relying on data synchronization. Data synchronization is the ongoing process of syncing data between multiple devices in real-time. This means that any changes or updates are made automatically, ensuring complete consistency between various different systems. Synchronization allows a business owner in one state to effortlessly work with a retail store in another state across the country.Â
Data synchronization ensures that all information shared is accurate, secure, and compliant. It also helps to properly manage and support team members and leads to better customer experiences. With data synchronization, all information is checked, duplicated, and available to be put to use immediately. With changes made in real-time, there is no risk of mistakes, breaches in privacy, or outdated, misleading data. With the high-paced world of digital marketing, this is an extremely valuable asset for businesses.Â
GDSN Data Synchronization
GDSN stands for the Global Data Synchronization Network. It is essentially an internet-based product data pool that allows companies to exchange standardized product data with their trading partners in real-time. This type of data synchronization is primarily used by retail industries involved in food, apparel, and general merchandise.Â
How Does GDSN Data Synchronization Work?
GDSN works by providing every product with a unique identifier within the network. The supplier is responsible for providing important attributes about the product that is stored and accessible in a data pool. The information that is typically shared concerning a specific product is its category, color, weight and size, and packaging information. This provides retailers with a clear understanding of what the product is and how it would appear on the shelf. Pricing or information on other e-commerce attributes is not typically included.Â
The data pool itself has its own set of requirements and regulations to which users have to adhere, such as following the GS1 standards and specific certification requirements. Once the information is in the data pool, buying organizations, such as retail stores, grocery stores, and other distributors, can access the product information through the pool.Â
Using the GDSN allows sellers and distributors to be on the same page concerning specific products. To communicate effectively, both parties have to be sharing the same language. This requires utilizing the same data synchronization platforms. This is why many buying organizations require suppliers to use the GDSN certified data pool. Data synchronization on the GDSN is ideal for larger companies but is adaptable for almost any seller willing to put in the time and effort if significant scaling is achieved.Â
Why Use Data Synchronization?
The digital marketing world is fast-paced and highly competitive. To stay on top, you have to be able to adapt quickly. Data synchronization platforms such as GDSN ensure that you never miss a beat as both product developer and seller. Data synchronization is key to sharing data that can be trusted. Updates are always consistent and secure. Using data synchronization can improve team productivity, order management, cost-efficiency, and reputation management.Â
GDSN ensures that all information shared is accurate, secure, and up-to-date. Knowing that product updates and communications are always going to be consistent and accurate allows you to focus more of your time and energy on other aspects of your business. If you want to learn whether GDSN data synchronization is right for your company, contact the professionals at RIVIR.Â
Sources:
https://www.spscommerce.com/blog/gdsn-data-synchronization/
https://www.talend.com/resources/what-is-data-synchronization/
