Product Information Management Glossary
Definitions for key terms in PIM, ecommerce, and retail — everything you need to understand product data management.
GDSN (Global Data Synchronization Network)
The GS1 network that lets trading partners share standardized, GTIN-keyed product data automatically through certified data pools.
Learn moreGTIN (Global Trade Item Number)
A globally unique product identifier administered by GS1, used across supply chains and marketplaces — the umbrella standard that includes UPC and EAN.
Learn moreMPN (Manufacturer Part Number)
The code a manufacturer assigns to a product or part, shared by every reseller — used by marketplaces to match listings, especially when no GTIN exists.
Learn moreMaster Data Management (MDM)
An enterprise discipline and software category for keeping one authoritative record for products, customers, suppliers, and locations across every system.
Learn moreProduct Datasheet
A structured document that lists a product’s key specifications, features, and attributes in a standardized, scannable format for buyers and channels.
Learn moreProduct Experience Management (PXM)
The practice, built on PIM, of adapting one accurate product record into the content each channel, market, and buyer needs to convert.
Learn moreProduct Information Management (PIM)
Software that keeps one complete, correct record per product and publishes it to every store, feed, and buyer you sell through.
Learn moreProduct Variants
Versions of the same product that differ by option values like size, color, or material — each with its own SKU, price, and inventory, under one shared product listing.
Learn morePublish Gate
A quality checkpoint that verifies product information meets defined requirements before it is published to a store or sales channel.
Learn moreSKU (Stock Keeping Unit)
A unique internal identifier brands and retailers assign to each product variant for inventory, pricing, and operations.
Learn moreShopify Markets
A Shopify feature that helps merchants sell to customers in different countries and regions with localized shopping experiences.
Learn moreSpec-Grounded AI
An AI approach that creates or improves product content using existing product specifications and catalog data as its source of truth.
Learn moreReady to manage your product data?
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