How to Find the Perfect Cloud-Based PIM for Your Online Store

In eCommerce, product information is everything. Inaccurate details? That kills customer trust. And when trust vanishes, so do sales.

With a cloud-based PIM, your data stays consistent. It automates processes like data entry, making it easier for your team to manage products, even if you have hundreds or thousands of SKUs.

With a cloud-based system, you can make updates in real time and immediately push them live across all channels. This is especially valuable during promotions or product launches, as you save time by avoiding manual updates.

Manual data entry can lead to errors, which can result in inaccurate product information being displayed to your customers. Cloud-based PIM systems automate these processes, significantly reducing errors.

Whether you’re managing 100 products or 10,000, a cloud-based PIM can scale with your business. You won’t need to worry about outgrowing your system or investing in costly infrastructure.

Visit this blog to learn more about the other benefits of PIM systems in eCommerce.

First, think about the size of your business. Are you a small store with a few hundred products? Or do you manage thousands of SKUs across multiple sales channels?

If you’re starting out, you don’t need all the bells and whistles. Look for a PIM that scales with you. As your business grows, your PIM should grow with you.

For larger businesses already selling on multiple platforms, you’ll need advanced features—think real-time updates, detailed analytics, and customizations.

The right cloud-based PIM should integrate effortlessly with your current software. Do you use Shopify, WooCommerce, or Magento? Make sure the PIM supports your platform.

Some PIMs even integrate directly with major marketplaces like Amazon and eBay. This can save you hours of manual work by syncing your product data automatically across all channels.

Why get a PIM in the first place? To make things easier. So, naturally, the system itself should be user-friendly.

Look for an intuitive dashboard. The navigation should be simple, and the learning curve should be short. Most importantly, test it out. Try adding or updating products. If you or your team find it frustrating, that’s a red flag.

No two businesses are alike. That’s why customization matters. A good cloud-based PIM will let you adapt product attributes to your business needs.

For instance, a clothing store might require fields for sizes, colors, or materials. Your PIM should allow for these custom fields based on what’s unique to your products.

Your product data is your business. Losing it or having it compromised can be catastrophic. With everything moving to the cloud, security is crucial.

Look for strong security features—encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular backups. Each year, eCommerce websites account for 32.4% of all successful cyberattacks, so this isn't a feature you can skip.

A PIM isn’t just about the software; it’s about the company behind it. Make sure you choose a provider that offers top-tier support and training.

What if something goes wrong? You need a team available 24/7 to help. Additionally, check for training resources like tutorials, webinars, and a help center. That way, your team gets up to speed quickly.

Finally, consider your budget. Cloud-based PIM systems come in all price ranges, from flat monthly fees to pay-as-you-go models based on the number of products or channels you manage.

Make sure you understand the pricing structure. Some platforms may charge extra for additional features, integrations, or support services. Always ask what’s included in your package to avoid hidden costs down the line.