PIES Education & Data Standardization

Never heard of PIES?  Or perhaps heard the 'PIES-Buzz' in the industry?  Not exactly sure what it is or what it's about?  We can help guide you!

It's simple, PIES is the Product Information Exchange Standard developed by AAIA (Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association) many years ago as an 'Industry Standard' for the 'Type' of product information and attributes manufacturers should be sending to their customers and also 'Specs' the preferred delivery method of this product data as 'XML' format.  It should also be noted that PIES is a 'Living-Standard' and changes/updates are made to the PIES Standards as the business needs to the automotive parts distribution change and evolve.

So what does this mean to you being that your company is operating outside of the traditional parts market and strictly concentrating of the Racing, Performance and Accessory market?  The answer... A LOT! 

Most of the distributors (WD's) and resellers (Jobbers/Speed Shops/Chassis & Engine Builders) in the Specialty Aftermarket all have the same struggles... getting quality product information in 'Electronic Format' from their suppliers. 

PIES solves this problem.  It allows all important product information from a manufacturer to be transmitted in a single data file.  The PIES standard is designed to accommodate and deliver over 250+ fields of information per part number! 

These fields of information 'per product' include, but are not limited to, the following:

In fact, PIES has 15 Description fields, 43 Price fields, 40 Digital Asset fields and a lot, lot more!

PLEASE STOP NOW AND BREATHE!  But don't get stressed or freaked out by this!  That where RPM Data Services comes into the picture... We make it simple to understand and approach!

We offer a systematic and simple solution to our clients that has been proven time and time again.  The ultimate goal of all product manufacturers is only one thing... and that is to sell more parts!

Please continue on your tour of the RPM website and we'll show you how we can help!

ACES Consultation (Year-Make-Model Data)

ACES - Simply stands for: AAIA Catalog Enhanced Standard

ACES is designed to standardize the information used to ensure proper product selection and fitment.

ACES 1.0 – Understanding the Basics

ACES is a bit overwhelming to most people the first time around, and even the second, and many times the third…you get the idea. There's a lot to understand regarding all the technical specifications. 
 

But the good news is that there is help out there for companies wishing to grow their business through product fitment data.  Remember, if you do have Year-Make-Model products, you’re MISSING SALES if you do not have your data mapped to ACES! 

Fact: Over 50% of all catalog applications look-ups use nothing more than Year-Make-Model on the traditional hard-parts side of the Automotive Industry. Think about the growth you could see if your specialty parts were ACES compliant!

Want to know more about ACES and the In’s & Out’s of fitment data? 

Give us a call or e-mail today and we'll share our knowledge with you and send you down the right path.

RPM's Data Blender - Information Intake, Preparation & More!

The RPM "Data Blender™" is an unique process. 

It allows clients to submit their data to RPM in their choice of formats whether it be Word, Excel, PDF or simple text.  Once received, RPM turns on its "Blender" to flow the data into the client's database for cleansing, validation and storage.  Missing data fields of information are then "data-mined" to ensure the product's data set is as complete as possible for all data receivers.

• Information Intake - We are happy to receive the client's product data in any format they choose.  There is no need to convert it into a special format for inclusion into your RPM database at RPM.  We perform this service for clients which saves them time and labor.
   
• Preparation - Once we receive a client's product data, we will then place the product information they provide into the proper fields within the PIES data standard.
   
• Cleansing - The data is thoroughly reviewed for content and richness. We will rework the content to be usable in most Point-of-Sale and Inventory Management Systems.  Web site compatibility is also taken into consideration when massaging the clients content.
   
• Validation - The data is closely checked for hidden ASCII character problems and scrubbed to prevent file errors. All data is also checked to ensure field content does exceed the maximum characters allowed per PIES field specifications.  Numeric fields are also formatted to comply with the PIES standard.  If digital assets are provided, we will validate the URL's and also the URL stings to ensure that they comply the AAIA's Best Imaging Practices.
   
• Data Mining - When all client data has been placed into the RPM database, a scan is then run to flag all "Mandatory" fields that are missing product data.  We also include the most "Highly-Desired" fields missing information. From there, we will use our expertise to fill-in the holes (i.e.: HAZMAT, Harmonization Codes, Unit of Measure, etc).  We will also hunt down your product's digital assets (i.e.: Product Images, Instruction Sheets, Warranty Information, etc.) by interfacing with your marketing department.
   
• Field Mapping - We will keep accurate track of how clients name their product information fields so that future inbound product data gets processed accurately and also in a timely manner.  We will also work with our clients to understand any special requirements their customers may have regarding electronic data files.  We will map these specs so that a custom output file can be created if so needed.
   
• Storage - Once a clients product data is ready for distribution, we storage it on our secure state-of-the-art servers located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  We also run nightly backups on two additional mirror drives to ensure 100% recovery in case of any unforeseen disaster.
   
• Life-Cycle Maintenance - This is an unique service that only RPM offers clients. Our job is to ensure that our clients' data is compliant to the Best Business Practices within the Automotive Aftermarket.  With this said, we ensure that all discontinued and superseded products are included in the data file output for a MINIMUM OF FIVE YEARS!  We do the maintenance in our database so our clients do not have too.  They can remove this data from their internal systems if they so wish, as we will have this available FOREVER! (Note: Exclusion of these obsolete items is an option in the data feed process).
   
• Distribution - We will make our clients PIES data files available for download by the clients customers or we can arrange a delivery schedule to "push" product data when needed whether it be a daily, weekly or monthly basis.  The truth is that only some WD's can accept a standardized PIES file in XML.  This is why we also offer custom data extracts if the client's data receivers wish to limit the number of fields or need a specific field layout/format. Flat files are the norm in the Performance, Racing and Accessory market and we can output Excel, ASCII and other types of delimited formats.
   
• SEMA Data Pool Compliance - We support SEMA 100% in their efforts to build a "Data Pool" for the Performance, Racing and Accessory Aftermarket.  This type of distribution system is long over due in our industry.  We will ensure that our data exports are compatible with the design of their final file input structure.  We encourage all clients to take a look at the SEMA Data Pool once it is announced and learn how it can benefit their business. 

Data Syndication & Distribution

It's very important that product manufacturers send out product data to their distribution partners on a regular and timely basis.

This is especially true to those manufacturers that introduce new products multiple times per year.  Speed to market is key to selling new parts. 

ENTER RPM DATA CENTRAL- Our job at RPM is to make sure that product data is ready for all distribution partners as soon as the factory press release is sent to the media.

We can do this two (2) different ways.

"DATA PUSH" - We can transmit product data via e-mail and FTP on an as needed basis or completely automate the process if more frequent transfer of data is needed. 

"DATA PULL" - We allow a manufacturer's customers to login anytime through our website using a secure portal to obtain any and all product data that they are authorized to have access to.

DO send your data well in advance of price changes!  Allow all parties time to analyze the data and construct an action plan for the fresh data.

DO send your data at least once a year!  Regardless if pricing has not changed, you are certain to have new products in your product selection. Trust us!  All WD’s, Jobbers and Data Receivers want this fresh product data!

Not following these recommended Best Business Practices?  Give us a call today and let's discuss how we can help you raise your corporate image to your customers and distribution channel partners.

Data Synchronization and Data Mapping

Data Synchronization is just as it sounds - Exact Data Matching at both ends of the distribution channel and between trading partners.

This is a very important element when distributing and communicating product data as it is the "Life-Blood" of selling parts electronically and working efficiently.  Every level of distribution is affected from the WD's, the Jobbers and even the Reps, rely on getting data consistently and having perfect matches each and every time. 

EXAMPLE: A manufacturer uses a series of part numbers internally that best suits their needs and sells/invoices products using that exact part number system.  However, many times a distributor may elect to use a proprietary part number that is easier for order entry or other business system purposes.  

Here's some "Real-World" examples:  

Product:  Painted Wheel - 15 Inch X 7 Inch 5-4.5 Bolt-Circle 2 Inch Back-Spacing 

Factory Catalog/Selling Part Number: 400-1507-10-2  

Warehouse Distributor Part Number:  7452

Product: Billet Radial Mount Caliper - .38 Inch Rotor 

Factory Catalog/Selling Part Number: 120-6453-SI 

Warehouse Distributor Part Number:  1206453SI

Product: Small Block Chevy 4340 Forged I-Beam Connecting Rods 5.700 Long 

Factory Catalog/Selling Part Number: 2-ICR5700-7/16

Warehouse Distributor Part Number:  25700716

SOON AFTER... THE CONFUSION STARTS: This system may work great for the distributor the first time around but as time goes on, it gets harder and harder to match the vendor data file information due to the custom part numbering sequence.  This is especially true when new personnel enter the picture and attempt to process data.

SO BEGINS THE DATA MAPPING: This is where RPM can help.  Although it is NOT best business practices in regards to use of product data, our job is to make the transmission of data between two trading partners as easy as possible.  Once RPM is informed of the requirements of the data receiver, we can database these custom fields and create a seamless file that saves a great deal of time and money at both the manufacturer and distributor level. 

MORE EXAMPLES OF DATA MAPPING:  Say a WD does not have a pricing field in their business system called "Jobber" and uses the factory "Jobber" price in a field named "Baseline".  What we will do is set up a data export that automatically renames the factory "Jobber" price field from the vendors data to read "Baseline" which eliminates reformatting at the data receiver's end.

FINAL DATA OUTPUT:  In addition, we can MAP and LAYOUT the final output file to meet any Data Receiver's needs.  For further information about this process, please visit the RPM Data Central section of our website.  

Digital Asset Management & Education

Still sending images on CD’s or via e-mail? Still mailing, faxing or e-mailing documents... well, the cold-hard truth is that you’re wasting money, time and labor!

Take control of your content using Digital Assets best business practices. When you update your server image or document, you update that one item everyone has access to. After all, it’s important to have the correct image and information available to those marketing your products!

You save your customers time and money also!

Added bonus! You’re raising your company’s perceived image if distributors are storing these links and using them “live” in their Point-of-Sale or web site software.

Hmmm... Brand images, instructions and more “Up-to-Date” on the fly... See the potential?

More information can best found within the AAIA Best Imaging Practices Documentation PDF. You can access this document by clicking the image below. 

However, please be aware that this document is currently under review by the AAIA Technology Standards and Solutions Committee as of June 2010.  We expect AAIA to announce many revisions to the Imaging Best Practices to be announced during 2010 ands 2011.  Be sure to watch our news and event section for details about these announcements once they have been made public.

Have further questions about Digital Assets, give us a call.  We would glad to help and get you up to speed! 

Social Media Consultation, Implementation & Channel Maintenance

  
What Else Can You Do To Get Your Company Name In Front Of Internet Users? 

Is Your Company Using Social Media?

What is Social Media you ask?  Let's start with Facebook.  Some people  three or more years back thought it was just a fad.  So let’s see what difference a few years makes. Check this out...

So much for being a fad!  Today we find prime examples regarding the use of Social Media ranging from The White House, To Disneyland®, to Carl's Jr.®, to Hotchkis Performance®.  Even our founder's cat, "Smoker" has his own Facebook Page... and trust us, the "Smoker Cat" has more people following him than many small businesses!  So if done correctly, we're sure that your business can have a lot more user traffic on Facebook than a "dumb-ass-cat" (Sorry... We mean no offence to you Smoker's!)

Let the crew at RPM Data Services help you get started.  We'll give you the tips and advice you need to be successful using Facebook.

Oh, did we mention that it’s Facebook is FREE!  How many things today are free?  More than you think!  Here's some additional useful and popular Social Media outlets:

Here’s why you should not wait...

WD's are using social media to find new dealers and dealers are using these site to reach more end-consumers... which are your customers!  Shouldn't you, the product manufacturer, be busy marketing your products & services and supporting your distribution channel partners? 

Trust us... If you're a manufacturer... Your competitors are most likely already using Social Media or will be soon!

So what are you waiting for?  Remember it’s free stuff!

And yes... we at RPM we practice what we preach.  We use Facebook and Twitter as a mechanism to reach out to clients and supporters to keep them informed about our latest news & event information. 

Need help or have questions about getting started in Social Media?  Give us a call or e-mail today and we'll get you headed in the right direction. 

Website Design-SEO-Usability and Functionality Reviews

Need Honest Feedback About Your Website?  We would be happy to help and give business owners an unbiased opinion with their permission. 

WARNING!  While many observations and suggestions may be favorable to your current site, please be prepared to hear our honest feedback.  We are well aware that many site developers and those responsible for the maintenance/content have "egos".  Our job is not to offend, but give honest criticism about what we see on-line.

Should You Call RPM and Have Us Review Your Site?  Business owners should ask themselves the following questions:

• Is my web site doing the things a “good” web site should?
• Do new customers call or e-mail our company because of our site?
• Do existing customers use our website as a resource?
• Does our website sell “stuff” without taking on-line orders?

If you say “NO” to any of these questions... are you measuring your site’s performance to find out why?

Here's Some Cold-Hard Facts About Your Website:

• Fact! 80% of all first time visitors to your site never return.
• The “KISS” rule applies, keep it simple use a clean layout and design.
• When a visitor lands on any one of your site pages, there should be NO question about what your company is about or what you do. Be sure to communicate this message clearly.
• Websites are all about content, and remember… CONTENT IS KING!
• Web marketing is first about awareness, not sales. You can’t sell much if people can’t find you on-line or if your site is difficult to use.
• You need to make your ‘call to action’ obvious – clearly define what you want your customers to do.

THINGS TO REMEMBER - When redesigning or building your site, please take a moment to remember these points - "Common Myths, Mistakes and Misconceptions":

• “A web developer can build my site without me” – No direction is needed - WRONG!
• “We can just “throw” something up there” - WRONG!
• “It’s easy to convert a visitor to a customer” - WRONG!
• “Sites are easy to build, my sister-in-law’s Aunt’s cousin builds web sites so it’s got to be EASY!” - WRONG!
• “I’ll link to every aftermarket web site” - WRONG!
• “If I like my site, my customers will love it” - WRONG!
• “One guy can build my site” - WRONG!
• “I’m finally done with my website!” - VERY, VERY WRONG!

So if you're ready for the cold hard facts and truth, give us a call.  We'll be glad to take a look and give you our honest opinion and once the results are in, point you in the right direction to using our resources.

RPM - Additional Services

RPM - Proud To Offer Clients Many Unique Additional Services and Solutions.  We are diversified and well-rounded in the Industry and can offer sound advice in many different areas.

- Web Selling Services Education 

Thinking about or attempting to sell on-line?  Let us walking you through all the scenarios.  Whether or not you currently have a website or want to start a store front on a major eTailer website, we can offer you solid solutions to get you headed in the right direction.  We also have quality, direct contact information for the following on-line retailer programs:

- Closed-Loop (Beginning-To-End) Project Management

Don't have time to manage a data related project yourself?  Give RPM an opportunity to help.  Let's discuss your project specs and see if we can take some of the pressure off. 

- On-Site Consulting and On-Line Education 

Want to educate your company in-depth on PIES and other types of topics we know so well?  Talk to us about your needs.  Whether it be an on-site visit or a presentation via a webinar format, we can arrange to accommodate your needs. 

- Point-of-Sale and Inventory Management Software Data Integration

Considering a new software package to manage your business?  Give us a call first so we can pick your brain and see where your thought process is at.  We are well-versed with data integration within most systems and can give you some good pointers on what to look for when choosing a software package.

More and more manufacturers are taking action to restore or maintain the perceived value of their products. Over the past decade we have seen that the implementation of MAP (Minimum Advertised Pricing) and Unilateral pricing policies has becoming more commonplace.

MAP Pricing, in a nutshell, is a policy that states if a warehouse (and many times the jobber) distributes a product, they cannot advertise this product for sale below a certain price level. How each manufacturer defines, communicates and enforces this type of policy varies from company to company, and their actions are usually based on each company's interpretation of both Federal and State Fair Trade Laws.

Unilateral Pricing is where the factory dictates through a written policy exactly what a product can be sold for.

Soon RPM Data Services will launch a sister website dedicated to the topic of MAP pricing.  Look for an announcement in early 2011.  The sole purpose of this website is to allow all warehouse distributors, dealers and jobbers access to this factory pricing policy information. This way they can make an educated decision as to how they choose to market a product line with a published MAP or Unilateral policy.

Stay tuned for further details about this future RPM on-line service in the next several months.