, , , , ,

IDS Connect: Increased efficiency through lean processes for craftsman

Digitalization is revolutionizing the skilled craftsman and with it the way skilled craft businesses organize their processes. The IDS Connect interface plays a central role in this. It enables a seamless connection between craftsman software and suppliers’ online stores. But what specific use cases does this technology open up? And how do businesses benefit from it? In this article, I shed light on the potential of IDS Connect and highlight practical applications.

Craftsman software interface
IDS Connect connects the craftsman software with the supplier’s online store

Why IDS Connect is indispensable!

The demands on craft businesses are growing. Customers expect fast quotations, precise calculations and swift order processing. At the same time, internal processes must be designed efficiently in order to remain competitive. Craftsman software supports these processes. Providing them with up-to-date information requires a great deal of manual maintenance. This is where the IDS Connect interface comes in. IDS stands for “Integrated Data Interface” and enables the following applications:

  • Direct access to current article data such as prices, images, texts and availability
  • Automated data exchange between craftsman software and suppliers’ online stores
  • Reduction of manual work steps, which saves time and minimizes errors

For example, craftspeople used to have to manually transfer product data from catalogs or quotations into their system. This is a time-consuming and error-prone process, especially in dynamic markets. IDS Connect digitizes this step.

Use cases of the IDS Connect interface in practice

Various use cases can be optimized with this interface. Below you will find five possible applications:

Efficient shopping cart processing

A central use case of IDS Connect is the processing of shopping baskets.

Craftsman software interface
IDS Connect – Shopping cart processing

Practical example:

A company in the air conditioning technology sector uses its craftsman software to create a shopping cart with the materials required for the customer order. This is sent directly to the supplier via IDS Connect. Alternatively, the company can import a shopping cart created in the online store into its software for further processing – whether for calculations, quotations or orders.

Advantages:

  • No double data entry
  • Time savings through automated processes
  • Direct further processing of the data in your own software

Direct access to article data

IDS Connect makes it possible to call up article information such as prices, availability or technical details in real time. There is no need to leave the system and the interface accesses the required information in the “background”.

Craftsman software interface
IDS Connect – Article-Deep-Link

Practical example:

An installer is on site with a customer and realizes that a spare part is needed. Using the “Article Deep Link” function, he calls up the availability of the article from the wholesaler directly from his software. He can order the item within a few seconds. And without any detours via the office.

Advantages:

  • Real-time data saves unnecessary inquiries
  • Inspire customers by passing on information quickly
  • Optimization of the entire process from the quotation to the order to invoice processing with the supplier

Quotation preparation

IDS Connect makes it much easier to create quotations, as current article data can be integrated directly.

Craftsman software interface
IDS Connect – Offer processing

Practical example:

A roofer visits a customer on site and discusses the plans for the new roof with them. Using the integrated data interface (IDS Connect), he adds current prices and availability directly to his quotation. The finished quotation is sent to the customer by e-mail within a few minutes.

Advantages:

  • Fast quotation preparation increases customer satisfaction
  • More precise calculations thanks to daily updated data
  • Reduced administrative effort thanks to automated processes

Order processing

The IDS interface also offers considerable advantages when processing orders, as all relevant data is available centrally.

Craftsman software interface
IDS Connect – Order processing

Practical example:

A drywall builder receives an order for additional objects. He uses IDS Connect to access his supplier’s item data and imports it directly into his order. Changes or additions can be made in real time without having to overcome media disruptions between different systems.

Advantages:

  • Efficient order processing through direct integration of article data
  • Seamless communication between tradesman software and online store
  • Error reduction through automatic data transfer

Always up-to-date data thanks to integration of supplier systems

IDS Connect creates a seamless connection between craftsmen’s software or their ERP system and the suppliers’ online stores. This means that article data is always up-to-date in your own system.

Craftsman software interface
IDS Connect – Updating article master and transaction data

Practical example:

A painting company uses IDS Connect to access its wholesaler’s store system directly from its software. There he can search for products, compare prices and place orders. And all this without leaving the software.

Advantages:

  • Centralized processes without media disruptions
  • Increased efficiency in product search and ordering
  • Better overview of available products

Advantages of IDS Connect for trade businesses

The introduction of IDS Connect brings numerous advantages:

  1. Time saving: routine tasks such as manually transferring data are no longer necessary
  2. Error reduction: Automated processes minimize input errors
  3. Cost control: Costs can be calculated more precisely thanks to daily price queries
  4. Flexibility: data can be called up at any time, whether in the office or on the construction site
  5. Customer satisfaction: Fast quotation and order processing strengthens the relationship with the customer

Which ERP or craftsmen software offers this interface?

Here you will find an overview of software providers that offer the IDS Connect interface. Depending on the license model and software maturity, providers may be missing. I recommend contacting the current or potential software provider directly to discuss the details.

What needs to be considered during implementation?

Data quality is the foundation of the process. Article master data should be stored cleanly in the craftsman software. This means that the article number must contain a unique number. The manufacturer’s article number or the EAN number can be used here. This is important so that the items can be identified via the interface.

It is also important to look at the processes and objectives . Not every option that can be implemented with this interface is relevant for your company. The individual steps need to be defined before the technical implementation.

If colleagues and employees are involved, they should be involved at an early stage. Acceptance can arise through participation. After all, what good is the best data quality and a first-class process if they are not used?

Magic triangle – prerequisite for a successful introduction of the IDS interface

What is the difference to OCI, UGL, OMD, cXML Punchout and the DATANORM catalog format?

In addition to IDS Connect, there are other interfaces and data formats that enable cross-system work. The following section should help to highlight the differences. These “tools” for optimal processes depend on the selected system (e.g. tradesman software, ERP system), the objective and the technical capabilities of your most important suppliers.

OCI interface

OCI stands for Open Catalog Interface. This interface was developed by SAP and has become standard in many ERP systems. Companies from the manufacturing industry in particular rely on this interface. There are now also special purchasing systems, also known as e-procurement systems, that rely on this interface.

Function:

  • Import articles from the supplier’s online store into the tradesman software or ERP system.

Difference to IDS-Connect:

  • A separate interface (e.g. EDI) is required for the transmission of orders

DATANORM Catalog

DATANORM is a structured data format that was developed for the creation and maintenance of article data in craftsman software. It contains rudimentary data such as article number, description and price. This catalog format is also referred to as static, as a new DATANORM catalog must be created by the supplier each time a change is made and must be imported into the craftsman’s software.

Function:

  • Creation and maintenance of article data

Difference to IDS-Connect:

  • Static catalog format as opposed to the dynamic IDS interface, also known as dynamic catalog
  • Article creation possible in the craftsman software
  • Supplement to IDS Connect. First create the articles with DATANORM and then keep prices up to date with IDS Connect

OMD interface

OMD stands for Open Masterdata. Like the IDS Connect interface, OMD was developed by ITEK GmbH. Anyone working with the DATANORM catalog format can use it to add missing information such as images or data sheets as required. In the medium term, OMD is intended to replace the outdated DATANORM format.

Function:

  • With Open Masterdata, article data can be retrieved from the supplier in real time. This requires an article number or the EAN (or GTIN). This can be entered manually or selected from the DATANORM catalog.

Difference to IDS-Connect:

  • For articles that are not in the article data master in the craftsman software, images, texts, prices or service specifications can be called up, for example
  • Creation of new articles in the craftsman software possible
  • Similar function to the “article deep link” of IDS 2.5, but a different data standard

UGL interface

UGL is the abbreviation for “Übergabeschnittstelle Lang”. This was originally developed by the wholesale group “GC Group”. The UGS description (transfer interface) served as the basis for this.

Function:

  • An Excel file will be downloaded from the supplier’s online store. The information it contains is used to create quotations or orders. The focus of this “interface”, which is more like a catalog such as DATANORM, is the exchange of documents.

Difference to IDS-Connect:

  • IDS-Connect is an automatic and modern interface. With UGL and UGS, the data must be imported manually
  • Pure focus on the exchange of documents such as orders

cXML Punchout Catalog

The Punchout catalog works in a similar way to the OCI standard and was developed by Ariba in the USA. Systems from Oracle, coupa or SAP Ariba rely on this standard. Orders can be transmitted via this interface in a similar way to IDS Connect. It is also possible to return order confirmations, shipping notifications or invoices.

Function:

  • Import articles from the supplier’s online store into the tradesman software or ERP system.

Difference to IDS-Connect:

  • A separate interface (e.g. EDI) is required for the transmission of orders
  • Can import the supplier’s return messages into the craftsman’s system via the interface in addition to the order

Conclusion

IDS Connect professionalizes the working methods of trade businesses through seamless digital processes. Whether shopping cart processing, article data updates or quotation creation, the possibilities are diverse and offer enormous potential for increasing efficiency. For businesses, this not only means time savings and error minimization, but also increased customer satisfaction. In my many years of experience, three points are crucial for you to achieve first-class processes. Get your team on board and actively involve them in the change. Focus on high data quality. This will not only help you with quotations and orders, but also with warehouse processes in the long term. And finally, clearly define the goal and implement the planned process in the short term. Make your company fit for the digital future!

B2B E-Commece Expert

Peter Prütting is an expert in value-oriented and digital business development. With over 15 years of sales experience in wholesale, manufacturing and e-marketplaces, he takes a holistic view. His colleagues value him as a customer-centric and focused leader who guides teams through digital change. Away from his day-to-day work, he recharges his batteries by mountain biking.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions

Who developed the IDS interface?

The IDS Connect interface was developed by the associations BVBS (Bundesverband Bausoftware e.V.), DG Haustechnik (Deutscher Großhandelsverband Haustechnik) and ZVSHK (Zentralverband Sanitär Heizung Klima) in cooperation with ITEK GmbH.

Which software does IDS Connect support?

Many craftsman software solutions such as HERO, Handwerksdata, Haufe X360, Streit V.1, Landrix Handwerk, Das Programm, Pds Software, M-Soft and LC-Top offer IDS Connect integration.

What needs to be considered when introducing IDS Connect?

Data quality is the foundation of the process, which is why clean article master data with unique article numbers should be stored in the craftsman software. It is important to define the relevant processes and involve colleagues and employees at an early stage in order to create acceptance.

What advantages does IDS Connect offer for trade businesses?

IDS Connect offers time savings by eliminating manual data transfer, error reduction through automated processes and better cost control through daily price queries. It also enables greater flexibility thanks to data that can be called up at any time and increases customer satisfaction through faster quotation and order processing.

Can I access multiple suppliers with IDS Connect?

Yes, IDS Connect enables a seamless connection between your craftsman software and the online stores of various suppliers. You can search for products, compare prices and place orders without leaving your software.

Can I also use IDS Connect to order items directly on site?

Yes, IDS Connect makes it possible to check item availability and place orders directly on site at the customer’s premises without having to leave the software or return to the office.

Which wholesalers and manufacturers support the IDS Connect interface?

It is worth checking with your supplier. Here is a short selection of companies: Building materials trade – Baustoff Union, HVAC sector – Richter & Frenzel, electrical wholesalers – Fega & Schmitt.

Sources

, , , , , , ,

Coupa Catalog – Guideline for suppliers

If you want to list items in the Coupa Supplier Portal, there is no way around the catalog format Coupa CSV Catalog or Punchout Catalog. Find out what the “Coupa CSV Catalog” is and how your company can create such catalogs.

What is the Coupa catalog?

The Coupa catalog is an electronic catalog in CSV format. It was developed to provide Product Data, images and prices for customers who use the “Coupa” e-procurement portal. The customer can choose from these products and place orders.

What advantages does the Coupa catalog offer?

The sale of products via coupa is possible via the aforementioned catalog or via WebEDI processing. The customer places the order there and the supplier collects it from the online portal. In contrast to the coupa catalog, this process has numerous disadvantages. In addition to the manual activity, data quality is not guaranteed and the supplier can be replaced quickly. In contrast, suppliers who provide a catalog have the following advantages.

  • Customer loyalty: In order to upload a catalog to the Coupa Supplier Portal, the customer’s supplier invitation is required. The articles can be uploaded on this basis.
  • Increased visibility: By providing well-structured and high-quality Product Data, suppliers gain visibility with employees authorized to place orders.
  • Automation: The integration of Product Data, via the CSV catalog in Coupa, ensures up-to-date prices and product information. This means that the subsequent process can be automated without errors using EDI. EDI stands for Electronic Data Interchange and describes the electronic exchange of messages.

What is the difference between the Coupa-Catalog and the Punchout-Catalog?

Coupa offers the integration of articles via two different catalog types. Punchout catalogs offer the advantage that they always provide up-to-date product information and prices. As the data is linked directly via the supplier’s website or online store. This means that customers always have the latest data available. The static Coupa catalog offers the advantage that items can be found via the comprehensive search. By storing the information locally in the Coupa system, items can also be included in favorites lists and workflows. Customers who often buy the same items appreciate this option.

  • Punchout catalog: This type of catalog makes it possible to integrate the supplier’s website or online store into the Coupa platform. In the case of an order, the customer’s employee jumps to the supplier’s website and selects the products there. After the shopping cart is completed, the data is transferred back to Coupa. There, the order is finalized and sent to the supplier. Punchout catalogs are dynamic and automatically update prices or availability.
  • Coupa CSV Catalog: This type of catalog is also known as a static catalog. Product Data, prices and images are uploaded to Coupa via a structured CSV file. After the upload, the customer checks the catalog content and releases it for the requisitioners (employees authorized to order). If the product range or prices change, a new upload and approval by the customer is required.

What does the static catalog look like in csv format?

A Coupa catalog in CSV format contains a wide range of information that is important for your customers. Each line in the CSV document represents a product. The most important Product Data includes product names, product descriptions, article numbers, prices, images and delivery times. The following image shows an example catalog, each separated by a semicolon. It can be opened in Excel and displayed in a structured format for maintenance purposes.

coupa csv format
Example of a Coupa catalog

What options are available for creating this catalog file?

There are three catalog creation systems that support you in creating the Coupa catalog. The choice of the right “tool” depends on a few basic conditions. These include the number of catalog files to be created, the maturity level of your organization and whether automation of the process is being considered.

  • Excel to CSV file converter: Coupa provides an Excel template for each project. The information can be maintained manually and then converted to a CSV file.
  • Software for catalog creation: Professional software is used to import the product portfolio from a source system or file, validate it and output it again in the appropriate format. Depending on the target system, the catalog upload can be automated via FTP server. If you are interested, you can read the blog post “Software for electronic catalog creation”.
  • PIM systems (Product Information Management System): If your company already has such a system, you can check whether an export function for individual CSV templates exists or can be programmed.

Conclusion

The Coupa catalog is an important tool for suppliers who want to serve customers and sell items via the Coupa Supplier Portal. Product Data, prices and images can be listed with this catalog in CSV format. The advantage for suppliers is that customers have access to up-to-date data. This increases customer visibility, which generally leads to increased sales and customer loyalty. In addition, up-to-date data is the basic prerequisite for the successful digitalization of subsequent processes. EDI (electronic data interchange) can be used to automatically exchange messages such as orders and invoices. We are currently experiencing a change in the purchasing behavior of business customers. Increasingly, user experiences from the private customer sector, e.g. with Amazon and Zalando, are expected in the business environment. Coupa takes this into account and enables suppliers to position themselves with the Coupa catalog.

B2B E-Commece Expert

Peter Prütting is an expert in value-oriented and digital business development. With over 15 years of sales experience in wholesale, manufacturing and e-marketplaces, he takes a holistic view. His colleagues value him as a customer-centric and focused leader who guides teams through digital change. Away from his day-to-day work, he recharges his batteries by mountain biking.

FAQ – frequently asked questions

What is the Coupa catalog?

The Coupa catalog is an electronic catalog in CSV format that provides Product Data, images and prices for customers using the e-procurement portal “Coupa”. Suppliers can upload Product Data, prices and images from which customers can select and place orders.

What advantages does the Coupa catalog offer?

Firstly, customer loyalty: Requires a supplier invitation from the customer to upload items. Second, increased visibility: Well-structured Product Data increases visibility to employees authorized to order. Third, automation: Integration of Product Data via CSV catalog ensures up-to-date prices and information, reducing process error through EDI (Electronic Data Interchange).

What is the difference between the Coupa catalog and the Punchout catalog?

Punchout catalog: Links directly to the supplier’s website to provide up-to-date product information and prices. The customer selects products directly on the supplier’s website and the data is then transferred to Coupa.
Coupa CSV Catalog: A static catalog where Product Data, prices and images are uploaded via a CSV file. Changes require a new upload and approval by the customer. Items can be integrated into favorites lists and workflows.

What options are available for creating this catalog file?

Excel to CSV file converter: Coupa provides an Excel template that can be maintained manually and converted to a CSV file.
Software for catalog creation: Professional software imports the product portfolio, validates it and outputs it in the appropriate format. The catalog can be uploaded automatically via an FTP server.
PIM systems: Existing product information management systems can be used to export or program individual CSV templates.

Sources

Coupa, catalogs: https://supplier.coupa.com/catalogs/

, , , , ,

What is a cXML punchout catalog and how can it optimize the sales process?

Acquiring new customers is notoriously exhausting and costs a lot of time and money. Existing customers have already been acquired and greater integration of the supplier into its customers’ processes increases customer loyalty. The cXML punchout catalogue makes an important contribution to this and optimizes the sales process.

Introduction to cXML Punchout Catalog

cXML-Punchout is a standardized interface that facilitates the exchange of Product Data between suppliers and purchasing organizations. This technology was developed by Ariba (now SAP Ariba) to make the integration of product catalogs into purchasing systems efficient and error-free. By using a cXML punchout catalogue, the ordering process is optimized as Product Data is transferred to the purchasing system in real time as part of an order.

➡️ cXML (Commerce eXtensible Markup Language) is a structured format for the exchange of Product Data and messages (e.g. orders) between companies

The ordering process via cXML Punchout

The purchasing process with a cXML punchout catalog takes place in several steps, which can be implemented in purchasing systems such as SAP Ariba or coupa :

Step 1: Supplier selection

The buyer opens his purchasing system and selects the
supplier required. This functionality is available in all standard
purchasing systems.

punchout catalog

Step 2: Opening the Punchout catalog

After selecting the supplier, the cXML Punchout catalog is opened automatically.

cxml-punchout

Step 3: Product selection

The buyer selects the desired products and adds them to their shopping cart

cxml-punchout

Step 4: Transfer and order

The filled shopping cart is transferred to the purchasing system. There, the buyer enters the delivery address and the cost center and sends the order.

cxml-punchout

Step 5: Internal release and dispatch

After internal approval, the order is sent to the supplier, who will deliver the goods. The ordering process is independent of the Punchout catalog. The ordering process runs as usual. If the exchange of PDF orders via e-mail has been agreed, the purchasing company will also continue to send PDFs.

cxml-punchout

Overall process:

The buyer selects the desired supplier in the purchasing system. After the selection, the supplier’s cXML Punchout catalog is opened automatically. The buyer selects the desired products and places them in the shopping cart. The filled shopping cart is transferred to the purchasing system, where the buyer enters the delivery address and cost center and sends the order. After internal approval, the order is sent to the supplier, who delivers the goods.

Advantages of a cXML Punchout catalog for suppliers

  • Increased visibility: Product Data, prices and availability are displayed directly in the purchasing organization’s purchasing system. This increases findability and sales.
  • Time savings and error reduction: Automated processes reduce manual effort and minimize input errors.
  • Real-time updating: Product information and prices can be updated at any time. This ensures that the supplier’s and customer’s database is always up to date.
  • Competitive advantage: The provision of a cXML punchout catalog can be a decisive factor in the selection of a supplier.
  • Customer loyalty: Simplified and faster order processing increases customer satisfaction.
  • Automation of business processes: The database enables error-free automation of downstream processes such as order and invoice management.

Advantages for purchasing companies

  • Increased efficiency: The direct integration of supplier catalogs into your own purchasing system simplifies the ordering process.
  • Reduced error rate: Automated data transfers minimize the risk of manual input errors and misunderstandings.
  • Transparency: Access to current product information, prices and availability without having to ask the supplier.
  • Time saving: Fast and uncomplicated ordering processes save time for productive activities.
  • Improved collaboration: Standardized processes improve collaboration with the supplier.

Integration of cXML Punchout

Supported systems

cXML Punchout can be integrated with various purchasing systems, including:

Implementation options

  • In-house development: Companies can develop their own cXML interface for their online store. This method offers a high degree of flexibility, but requires internal development and service expertise.
  • Standard solutions: Standard software solutions that have been specially developed for cXML integration are ready for use at short notice and are more cost-effective thanks to usage-based fees.
  • Plugins: Ready-made plugins are available for common store systems. The interface can be used by activating it in the online store, provided that the store system (Shopware, Magento) is used as standard without individual adjustments.

Conclusion

A cXML punchout catalog helps to optimize the sales and purchasing process. It offers considerable advantages for suppliers and purchasing companies by increasing efficiency, reducing errors and increasing customer loyalty. Whether through in-house development, standard solutions or plug-ins – the integration of a cXML punchout catalog accelerates the sales process and creates customer loyalty.

B2B E-Commece Expert

Peter Prütting is an expert in value-oriented and digital business development. With over 15 years of sales experience in wholesale, manufacturing and e-marketplaces, he takes a holistic view. His colleagues value him as a customer-centric and focused leader who guides teams through digital change. Away from his day-to-day work, he recharges his batteries by mountain biking.

FAQ – frequently asked questions

What is cXML Punchout and who invented it?

cXML Punchout is a standardized interface developed by Ariba (now SAP Ariba). It allows Product Data to be exchanged quickly between suppliers and purchasing organizations.

What does the process of an order via the cXML Punchout catalog look like?

The process includes selecting the supplier, opening the Punchout catalog, selecting the product, transferring the shopping cart to the purchasing system and sending the order.

How does a cXML punchout catalog optimize the sales process?

It minimizes manual entries and errors, simplifies order placement and strengthens customer loyalty through convenient order processing.

What advantages does a cXML punchout catalog offer suppliers?

The benefits include increased visibility in the customer system, time savings, real-time updating, competitive advantages and stronger customer loyalty.

What advantages does a cXML Punchout catalog offer purchasing companies?

Increased efficiency, reduced error rate, transparency, time savings and improved cooperation with suppliers.

With which systems can a cXML Punchout be integrated?

SAP Ariba, Coupa, Oracle

What options are there for offering your customers a cXML Punchout?

In-house developments, standard solutions or plug-ins for existing store systems.

Sources

, , , , ,

Open Catalog Interface – The smart way to place product data in procurement systems

The integration of product data in the customer’s system is a milestone in sales. There is a smart way to do this, known as the Open Catalog Interface. The terms OCI-Catalog, OCI-Shop or OCI-Connection are also commonly used. Find out how Open Catalog Interface helps you to place Product Data with your customers.

What is OCI and who invented it?

Open Catalog Interface (OCI for short) is a standardized interface for the error-free exchange of Product Data between suppliers and buyers. This technology was developed by SAP to simplify the process of catalog integration in purchasing platforms. By using OCI, suppliers can integrate their Product Data into their customers’ purchasing system in real time. This simplifies and accelerates the ordering process.

What does the process of ordering via the OCI catalog look like?

Employees from sales, customer service or IT only have a few contact points with the customer’s purchasing process. This is why terms such as OCI-Catalog, OCI-Shop or OCI-Connection have become commonplace. All these terms describe the following process:

oci

Step 1:

Open the e-procurement system and select the supplier. This is possible in all standard e-procurement systems and e-marketplaces such as Onventis, Newtron, DIG, mercateo unite, simple system, SAP SRM, BeNeering.

oci

Step 2:

The OCI catalog opens.

oci

Step 3:

Select products and transfer shopping cart

oci

Step 4:

Place the order in the e-procurement system and enter the delivery address and cost center. Afterward, send the order.

oci

Step 5:

The order is sent to the supplier after internal approval. The order can be sent as a PDF via e-mail or automatically via EDI (electronic data interchange). This is independent of the OCI catalog and must be clarified separately.

oci

Overall process:

The employee works in the purchasing system. The article data is loaded into the purchasing system via the OCI catalog. After approval, the supplier receives the order in the usual way.

➡️ There are different expansion stages of the Open Catalog Interface. OCI 4.0 is described in the process above. For this, the customer must briefly leave the e-procurement system to select the desired products. With OCI 5.0, this exit is optional and the customer finds the articles via the comprehensive search of the e-procurement system.

How does an OCI catalog optimize the sales process?

An OCI catalog optimizes the sales process on several levels. Firstly, it enables seamless integration of Product Data into customers’ purchasing systems, minimizing manual entries and errors. By e-procurement systems, we mean e-procurement systems (SAP Ariba, Onventis, Newtron), e-marketplaces (simple system, mercateo unite) or ERP systems (SAP).

Secondly, order placement is simplified by providing product information and prices in the customer system. The OCI catalog acts like a quotation from which the customer can order directly if required without having to obtain a separate quotation.

Thirdly, an OCI catalog promotes customer loyalty, as the purchasing process is considerably simplified and made more convenient for the customer.

Fourthly, this type of product data exchange creates the foundation for subsequent processes. On this basis, orders, order confirmations, shipping notifications and invoices can be processed automatically (EDI).

What are the advantages for suppliers and customers?

Advantages for suppliers

For suppliers, the implementation of an OCI catalog offers numerous advantages:

  • Increased visibility: products and services are displayed directly in the customer’s e-procurement system.
  • Time savings: Automated processes reduce the effort required for manual entries and error corrections.
  • Up-to-date: Product information and prices can be updated in real time.
  • Competitive advantage: The provision of an OCI catalog can be a decisive factor in supplier selection and item selection in day-to-day business.
  • Customer loyalty: Simplified order processing increases customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Automation of business processes: An OCI catalog ensures that suppliers and customers work on the same database. This means that subsequent processes (e.g. orders, invoices) can be automated without errors.

Advantages for purchasing companies (customers)

Customers also benefit considerably from an OCI catalog:

  • Efficiency: The ordering process is greatly simplified by integrating the supplier catalogs into the company’s own e-procurement system.
  • Reduced errors: Automated data transfers minimize input errors and misunderstandings.
  • Transparency: Purchasing companies always receive up-to-date information on products, prices and availability.
  • Time saving: Fast and uncomplicated ordering processes enable a more efficient way of working.
  • Improved cooperation: Cooperation between buyer and supplier is strengthened by standardized processes.

Which systems can an OCI be integrated with?

OCI can be integrated with a variety of purchasing systems. The following systems have an OCI interface:

  • SAP ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning)
  • Jaggaer
  • SAP SRM (Supplier Relationship Management)
  • Mercateo Unite
  • Proactis
  • Onventis
  • Infor CloudSuite
  • GEP SMART
  • Basware
  • SynerTrade
  • Newtron
  • Simple system

What options are there for offering your customers the Open Catalog Interface?

There are basically three ways to implement Open Catalog Interface:

  1. In-house development: Companies can develop their own solutions. The standard approach is to program an OCI interface for the existing online store. The advantage of this is that individual requirements can be implemented more easily. The major disadvantage, however, is that this requires considerable development resources and support.
  2. Standard solutions: There are ready-made software solutions that have been specially developed for OCI integration. These are often ready for use more quickly and are more cost-effective than in-house developments.
  3. Plugins: An OCI interface for certain store systems can also be purchased. Ready-to-use plugins are available especially for Magento, Shopware and other store systems.

Conclusion

The Open Catalog Interface (OCI) is a smart tool for seamlessly integrating Product Data into your customers’ purchasing systems. It optimizes the sales process at various levels. From a process perspective, the error-free exchange of orders and invoices is a major efficiency gain for both supplier and customer. It can be integrated into numerous customer systems by means of in-house development, standard solutions or plug-ins. Having an OCI catalog in the service portfolio leads to greater customer loyalty and, in the long term, to increased sales.

B2B E-Commece Expert

Peter Prütting is an expert in value-oriented and digital business development. With over 15 years of sales experience in wholesale, manufacturing and e-marketplaces, he takes a holistic view. His colleagues value him as a customer-centric and focused leader who guides teams through digital change. Away from his day-to-day work, he recharges his batteries by mountain biking.

FAQ – frequently asked questions

What is OCI and who invented it?

OCI (Open Catalog Interface) is a standardized interface developed by SAP for the error-free exchange of Product Data between suppliers and purchasing companies.

What does the process of ordering via the OCI catalog look like?

The purchasing process begins with the selection of the supplier in the purchasing system, followed by the product selection in the OCI catalog, the transfer of the shopping cart and the order in the e-procurement system.

How does an OCI catalog optimize the sales process?

An OCI catalog minimizes manual entries and errors, simplifies order placement and promotes customer loyalty through error-free and fast order processing.

What advantages does an OCI catalog offer suppliers?

It increases visibility, saves time through automated processes, offers real-time up-to-dateness, creates competitive advantages and strengthens customer loyalty.

What advantages does an OCI catalog offer purchasing companies (customers)?

It increases efficiency, reduces errors, offers transparency, saves time and improves collaboration with suppliers.

Which systems can an OCI be integrated with?

OCI can be integrated with systems such as SAP ERP, Jaggaer, SAP SRM, Mercateo Unite, Proactis, Infor CloudSuite, GEP SMART, Basware, SynerTrade and Newtron.

What options are there for offering your customers an Open Catalog Interface?

Options include in-house developments, standard solutions or plugins for existing store systems such as Magento or Shopware.

Sources

, , , , , , ,

DATANORM – Simple exchange of Product Data in the construction industry

Would your customer like to receive data via Datanorm? Does he mean a system, specific product information or documents? This article will help you to understand the DATANORM concept.

What is DATANORM?

DATANORM is a standardized file structure for the exchange of product information such as article number, tender text, price and image names. This format is mainly used in the construction industry. The aim is to enable the listing of articles from manufacturers and wholesalers in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or calculation programs with just a few clicks.

catalog type datanorm
Source: datanorm.de – Logo

This means that product information such as item prices no longer needs to be maintained manually, but can be transferred directly to the software via the interface. This saves a lot of time and keeps the product information up to date.

The structure and content are defined and developed by the DATANORM working group. The working group consists of associations, manufacturers, dealers, publishers and software providers from the construction and craftsman sectors. This standard is therefore manufacturer-independent.

Which versions of DATANORM are available?

This file structure was published in 1986. Three versions have been published since then:

  • 1990 Version 3
  • 1994 Version 4
  • 1999 Version 5 (current version)

Version 5 added further information such as tile product features, customs tariff numbers or multimedia elements such as images or drawings.

catalog type datanorm
Source: datanorm.de – Comparison of versions

Structure of the DATANORM structure

DATANORM is not mapped using a single file, but the information is stored in several files. The individual data records are identified via the article numbers and group numbers.

catalog type datanorm
Source: datanorm.de – Basic product information

A complete “DATANORM record” consists of the following files:

  • Basic product information: DATANORM.001- .999
  • Product groups: DATANORM.WRG
  • Price file: PREISDAT. 001 – .999
  • Discount groups: DATANORM.RAB

Which systems have a standard interface to DATANORM?

The format has become the industry standard in the construction and craftsman sectors. For this reason, many software providers have a standard interface that can read DATANORM files. These include

Craftsman software

Enterprise resource planning system (ERP)

Accounting software

Challenge: Keeping article data up to date

DATANORM is a static catalog format. I like to compare this to a stone tablet. Because as soon as the data has been sent from the wholesaler to the trade business, it is already out of date again. There is a smart approach to this problem. Many providers of craftsman software have an additional interface for integrating dynamic catalogs. This allows current prices and availability to be called up for quotations and orders. The interface described is called IDS. This abbreviation stands for “Integrated Data Interface” and connects craftsman software with the supplier’s online store.

➡️ Would you like to provide your customers with up-to-date images, prices and delivery times in quotations? In this case, it is worth taking a closer look at the IDS Connect interface. Read here to find out what this interface can do and how it is revolutionizing the craftsman’s trade.

Conclusion

DATANORM is the industry standard in the construction sector. It allows data to be exchanged quickly and easily. If the construction industry is a focus target group for your company, then it is worth investing in the structure of DATANORM files. Before you dive into the technical details of this structure, my tip is to take a look at your customers’ must-have DATANORM information and analyze whether this information is available in a structured form.

B2B E-Commece Expert

Peter Prütting is an expert in value-oriented and digital business development. With over 15 years of sales experience in wholesale, manufacturing and e-marketplaces, he takes a holistic view. His colleagues value him as a customer-centric and focused leader who guides teams through digital change. Away from his day-to-day work, he recharges his batteries by mountain biking.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions

What is DATANORM?

A structured file that can be used to pass on product information from wholesalers and manufacturers. This structure is widely used in the construction industry.

What is DATANORM not?

It is not software or a program. Nor does it automatically update any product information. It is also not a ASCII plain text.

Which versions of DATANORM are available?

There are currently versions D3, D4 and D5.

Do enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems or invoicing programs offer a DATANORM interface?

Yes, providers of software for craftsmen in particular have provided such an interface to DATANORM.

What advantages does DATANORM offer over manual data maintenance?

Time savings, error reduction and automatic updates.

Is DATANORM also suitable for small craft businesses?

Yes, the benefits are available to small and large companies.

Are there alternatives to DATANORM?

Depending on the application and software, other static catalog formats such as BMEcat or EXCEL can also be used. Dynamic catalogs such as OCI or IDS are also exciting alternatives.

Sources

Topics

  • Leading Change
  • Innovation Culture
  • B2B E-commerce
  • Product Data
  • AI & Automation

Navigation

Contact me WMB-Magazine My expertise

Mission

Sharing impulses for value-oriented and digital corporate development to help established companies on their way through the digital transformation.

© 2025 WMB Magazine | Imprint | Privacy Policy |