ETIM Classification – What is it and how does it work?

ETIM stands for the European Technical Information Model and is a standard classification in the installation and construction industry. The ETIM classification model was developed to provide a clear and distinct information structure for available technical products. ETIM classification ensures that technical products with the same characteristics are logically and consistently grouped. This ensures uniformity and recognition. ETIM classification is important for standardizing information so that product classes, features, values, and synonyms improve the identification of items.

When products are ETIM-classified, they can be easily exchanged due to the universal file format. Through integrations with so-called data pools containing millions of products (e.g., 2BA, InstallData, and EZ-base), the PIM system is enriched with product information. This allows wholesalers to import product information directly into their ERP system.

Benefits of ETIM Classification

Digitally providing uniformly qualified product information saves valuable time and thus money. ETIM-based product classification offers many additional benefits:

• Improved communication with all stakeholders
• Improved customer information
• Improved logistics
• Quality and consistency in the information flow
• Optimization of online and offline publications
• Future-proof
• One-to-one marketing to target audiences possible
• Improved management reporting
• Savings on order costs
• Language-independent
• Less or no duplicate work as information is digitally available

Where is ETIM Classification Applied?

ETIM classification is used as a standard in 22 countries: Canada, Finland, Mexico, Austria, Slovakia, Denmark, France, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Germany, Italy, North America, Portugal, Sweden, England, Lithuania, Norway, Slovenia, Switzerland, Australia, and New Zealand.

 
ETIM Classification and PIM System

Excel is still the most commonly used program for processing product data. Unfortunately, this often means product information is stored in multiple locations, managed by different people, and requires a lot of manual work. In addition, Excel’s capabilities are limited, so with large numbers of rows and columns, it is easy to lose track. Skwirrel’s PIM system is ETIM-classified, which allows integrations with platforms like 2BA and enables the system to be easily and efficiently enriched with millions of products. If product information is incomplete from the manufacturer, it can of course be supplemented directly in the PIM system.

Getting Started or Have Questions?

Do you have questions or uncertainties, or would you like to work with product information yourself? In our FAQ, you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions. If your question or answer is not listed, please feel free to contact us.