The chemical industry thrives on innovation. New formulas, materials and applications are constantly emerging, all demanding meticulous documentation and management. In this complex landscape, accurate and efficient product data is paramount. This is where a Product Information Management (PIM) system comes in.
However, not all PIMs are created equal. While a general PIM can offer basic functionality, the nuances of the chemical industry necessitate a specialized solution.
1. Deep Dive into Data: Understanding the Chemical Data Model
Chemical products are intricate beasts. They come with unique identifiers like CAS numbers, safety considerations outlined in Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and a myriad of specific properties.
A general PIM might offer generic product data fields, but it won’t be suited to the intricacies of chemical and ingredient product data. A single chemical product data sheet includes over 40 different properties on average. General PIMs are empty shells that you have to build out and customize yourself. That’s great for consumer products that only have a few attributes, but it doesn’t work for chemical products.
A chemical PIM provides a flexible, pre-configured data model specifically designed for chemicals. This includes built-in fields for CAS numbers, SDS integration, regulatory compliance details and specific chemical properties like flammability, reactivity and toxicity. This eliminates the need for extensive customization and ensures all crucial information is captured and readily accessible.
2. Speaking the Same Language: Mastering Industry Nomenclature and Classification
The chemical, ingredient and polymer industry have their own language. From specific classifications to acronyms, a general PIM would need to be heavily customized to handle these nuances. This creates challenges in data structure, entry and retrieval.
A chemical PIM is purpose-built with the industry’s terminology and classification systems. It allows for data entry and retrieval based on industry-specific data like CAS number (chemical abstract number) and the thousands of product properties, applications and safe handling.
The taxonomy built into Knowde’s AI-powered Knowledge Engine and Master Data Management Platform was curated by technical experts based on user research and search data and validated across 8,000+ supplier and distributor catalogs. The connected graph includes:
500+ facets
150,000+ structured attributes
1.5+ million taxonomical terms
3. Compliance is King: Navigating the Regulatory Landscape with Ease
Chemical companies operate under a strict regulatory framework. Safety Data Sheets, transport regulations and environmental impact assessments are just a few hurdles to navigate. A general PIM simply doesn’t have the built-in functionalities to keep up.
A chemical PIM, however, offers features specifically designed to ensure compliance with regulations like GHS and REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals). This can include automated generation of labels and documentation, streamlining the compliance process and saving valuable time and resources.
4. Tailored for Diverse Applications: Multi-Industry Product Views
Chemical products often find applications across various industries. Imagine a fire retardant used in construction and textiles. A general PIM might treat it as a single product, neglecting the specific needs of each customer segment.
A chemical PIM offers a solution: multi-industry product views. This allows you to manage product information with different perspectives for each industry. You can highlight relevant technical details for construction companies and showcase fire safety benefits for textile manufacturers. This approach provides a more comprehensive view of your products, catering to a wider audience effectively.
5. Faster Implementation, Streamlined Workflow: The Value of a Tailored Approach
Time is money, especially in a competitive industry. Implementing a general PIM for the chemical industry can be a time-consuming process. The system requires extensive customization to accommodate the specific data needs and regulatory landscape.
A chemical PIM, on the other hand, is built with the industry in mind. Implementation is quicker and requires less customization. This minimizes disruption to your workflow and allows you to reap the benefits of a robust product information management system faster.
Investing in a Chemical-Specific PIM: The Path to Success
The chemical industry thrives on precision and efficiency. A chemical PIM is more than just a data management tool; it’s a strategic investment.
Executive Interview Series | Ilham Kadri | Syensqo
You need to have an eye on the microscope and an eye on the telescope. You need to work on those long term investments and it should not be in conflict with reaping short term value in the digital space – on the contrary, it’s about building agility in your delivery and making the invisible visible.
It ensures accurate product information, simplifies compliance processes, and caters to the unique needs of your industry. By choosing a specialized PIM solution, you’re not just managing data, you’re unlocking a world of possibilities for clear communication, enhanced customer experience, and ultimately, a competitive edge in the dynamic world of chemicals.
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