For building product manufacturers, product information is much more than a collection of articles and specifications. It is knowledge that helps you advise customers, specify products and prevent costly mistakes in construction projects.
But how do you organise that knowledge? And which systems and tools do you need? ZeeBoer has developed its own method to help you make the right decisions together with your organisation. From a compact assessment to a comprehensive strategic exploration.
Many manufacturers manage their product information across different systems, documents and Excel spreadsheets. Much of their product knowledge also resides in the minds of employees. This works as long as everyone knows where to find the information. But what happens when an experienced colleague leaves, a customer requests different information or new legislation requires additional data?
For building product manufacturers, there is another important consideration. A product rarely stands alone. It is used as part of a system, must meet technical requirements and ultimately becomes part of a building. That is why we look beyond individual product attributes to include product knowledge, applications and how that information is used.
A solid product data strategy provides the foundation for reliable advice, accurate specification texts, product selectors and efficient information sharing with customers and supply chain partners. The focus is not on the software, but on the knowledge you possess as a manufacturer.
Not every manufacturer has the same organisation, product range or ambitions. That is why ZeeBoer has developed three versions of its strategic exploration programme. In each case, we work with representatives from your organisation. They understand your products, customers and day-to-day operations. We provide structure, ask the right questions and help you make informed decisions.
For manufacturers looking to take an organisation-wide approach to product and application information. Over six 90-minute sessions, we explore the role of product information, data sources, responsibilities, legislation and standards, among other topics. Together, we develop a product data strategy and a conceptual information model. The programme takes approximately three months.
Do you have a small team and a manageable product range? A comprehensive strategic exploration may be more than you need. In three 90-minute sessions, we identify bottlenecks, determine what information your customers need and assess whether a PIM system would genuinely add value. You receive well-founded recommendations on the available options, the minimum scope and the next steps.
Are you primarily looking to develop a specification service? We focus on the products, systems and applications you want to make available for specification. Over three sessions, we define the scope, develop a suitable data model and explore how the specification service can be integrated into your sales process and website.
Together, we select an approach that fits your needs, without making the preparation unnecessarily complicated.
A strategic exploration is not a sales presentation for Utopis. ZeeBoer facilitates the process as an independent knowledge partner. We bring together people from different departments and identify what information is available, what is missing and who should be responsible for managing it.
The outcome differs for every manufacturer. Sometimes, improving the configuration of existing systems is enough. In other cases, a PIM system may be needed, or a specification service may be the logical first step. Whatever the outcome, you will have a well-founded basis for making future decisions.
Would you like to discover which approach best suits your organisation? We would be happy to start with an introductory meeting. Together, we will look at your organisation, your ambitions and the role of product information in your sales process.
