Product Data Standard

The American Supply Association has embarked on a very important initiative that will significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of data exchange between distributors and manufacturers in our industry. The sharing of product data plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations, accurate inventory management, and overall supply chain efficiency.

While many already have built large product data libraries, the lack of a unified and standardized approach for sharing product data often leads to inconsistencies, errors, and delays. After studying the issue during our strategic meetings, we realized that there was a need for ASA to focus our attention on creating the standard by which data is shared. ASA’s leadership felt this was an important role and it was where we could make a difference.

Over a year ago, with the help of the Embracing the Future Council and roughly 30 industry-leading distributors and manufacturers, we embarked on the journey to create our industry’s first-ever data standard.

WHY A PRODUCT DATA STANDARD?

The plumbing and PVF (pipe, valve, and fitting) industry is developing a standard for sharing product data between distributors and manufacturers. This standard aims to streamline operations, reduce errors, and enhance efficiency across the supply chain. With a standardized data format, manufacturers and distributors will benefit from more accurate and consistent product information, reducing miscommunication and the risk of incorrect orders.

Additionally, a product data standard will simplify inventory management, accelerate the order-to-delivery process, and improve the overall customer experience by ensuring that all parties have access to the same, up-to-date uniform information. In a rapidly evolving market, this standard will foster improved collaboration and create a more transparent industry. By providing a common framework for data formats, it ensures that all stakeholders can access, share, and utilize data seamlessly and accurately.

KEY BENEFITS OF A PRODUCT DATA STANDARD

Reduces errors and misinterpretations: Improves accuracy in product information across all supply chain stages.

Enhances efficiency: Consistent data formats reduce time and labor spent on data conversion and integration.
Promotes collaboration: Facilitates better cooperation between manufacturers, distributors, and partners, leading to faster decision-making and response times.
Improves order accuracy: Standardized data allows distributors to access accurate and reliable product details, reducing errors.
Eliminates confusion: Clarifies product descriptions and specifications.
Increases operational efficiency: Helps distributors and manufacturers reduce operational costs and improve the speed and quality of their services.

ADOPTING AND ACCESSING THE STANDARD & QUICK GUIDE

To ensure the benefits to distributors, manufacturers, and reps of a new industry product data sharing standard is achieved, adoption by all industry partners is vital.

How to get started? Access the Product Data Standard and the sample Quick Column Guide for the new industry product data standard that provides a common framework for product data sharing, ensuring that all stakeholders can access, share, and utilize data seamlessly and accurately, visit ASA’s website.

Share this new standard with your data teams. We ask all manufacturers to share your data to your distributor customers utilizing the new standard format. We ask all distributors to ask your manufacturer supplier to provide your teams their data in the new industry standard format.

We believe that by working together, we can establish a robust and effective standard that will benefit all parties involved. ASA understands that this will take time as distributors and manufacturers begin incorporating the new standard into their systems…but as more and more firms adhere to the new standards, the benefits will grow for everyone.