Solve the multilingual puzzle – Establishing seamless translation processes for your PIM data

In today’s global market, managing product information efficiently is crucial for businesses aiming to expand their reach and streamline their operations. Product Information Management (PIM) systems have emerged as indispensable tools for centralizing and managing product data across various channels. As companies strive to internationalize, integrating translation and localization workflows into their PIM systems becomes essential.

This is where partnering with a language service provider (LSP) from the outset can make all the difference. At SeproTec we have extensive experience translating product data into multiple languages, consulting with our customers on integrated translation tools and simplifying processes.

Why PIM systems are important

A PIM system is designed to centralize all product information published through various communication channels such as user manuals, websites or e-commerce stores in one place. It streamlines the overall management of data like product descriptions, specs, images and other marketing materials – beyond Excel spreadsheets. By centralizing this data, companies can ensure that all departments, from marketing to sales, are working with the same up-to-date information. 

When expanding internationally, however, a PIM system alone is not enough. Product information needs to be translated and localized into different languages to meet the linguistic and cultural preferences of each market. As online surveys show, 75% of people want to purchase products in their native language.

Challenges of translating PIM data

While multilingual content creation may seem a non-issue these days with AI and machine translation on the rise, one would be incorrect to underestimate the complexity of translating and localizing product information into multiple languages.

There are a plethora of factors to consider when developing PIM solutions to ensure a successful outcome:

1. Complex workflows: Due to the different types of content and requirements, translation workflows often involve multiple steps and stakeholders, including project managers, translators and proofreaders. Managing all of these – efficiently, of course – requires expertise and experience in translation and localization processes.
2. Data consistency: Ensuring that translated content is consistent and accurate through all communication channels across all markets is critical. Discrepancies in product information can confuse customers and damage brand credibility.
3. Technical integration: PIM systems and Translation Management Systems (TMS) need to be integrated seamlessly to maximize the automation of the translation process. This requires expertise and adequate preparation, e.g. through the creation of data templates and continuous technical testing.
4. Cultural adaptation: Product localization goes beyond translation. The content needs to be adapted to local cultures, which can be a nuanced process requiring a deep understanding of the target market.
5. Search engine optimization (SEO): For websites and e-commerce shops, SEO also plays a very important role to ensure optimal searchability and customer experience. This process requires intensive keyword research and specialized translators who are familiar with the most popular search engines in the target region.

The role of a Language Service Provider

Involving a Language Service Provider (LSP) is worthwhile, and the sooner in the process the better. This is because they can advise you closely on potential processes and technologies and help prepare the implementation or transition of your PIM software. From migrating existing data, ensuring secure technical integration and automation, to training of all process participants.

LSPs have a skilled team with years of experience in diverse customer processes and PIM translation standards across various industries. They can generally also provide a wide range of language services such as multilingual desktop publishing (DTP), e-commerce and website localization, making sure all your translation needs are met.

Why to consider translations from the outset

Including translation and localization from the planning phase of PIM integration can have a number of benefits:

1. Efficiency: By considering translation and localization workflows from the beginning of the planning phase you ensure that any existing data can be migrated correctly and that all automations and technical interfaces are functional for a successful start to the operational phase. As an added bonus, this also precludes costly and time-consuming changes later on.
2. Scalability: No need to worry as your business grows and enters new markets. You can easily add new languages and target new markets without having to revise your existing workflows, scaling your operations smoothly.
3. Cost savings: Early integration, as mentioned above, ensures streamlined data migration and reduces the risk of technical errors and inaccurate results, which can be costly. Getting it right the first time will save you money in the long run.
4. Competitive advantage: The efficient management of multilingual product information gives you an edge. You can launch products faster in new markets and offer a cohesive brand experience worldwide. These are important factors in customer acquisition, especially for retailers and other online distributors.

Incorporating a PIM system is a significant step towards centralizing and streamlining your product information management. However, to truly leverage its potential on a global scale, integrating translation and localization workflows is essential. Partnering with a language service provider like SeproTec from the beginning ensures that these processes are efficient, accurate and scalable.

With our Language Consulting Services, we help our clients from various industries implement their PIM systems in regards to translation and localization processes.

If you are planning to roll out a PIM system or want to optimize your multilingual product management, feel free to contact us and we will discuss all your questions and we can discuss any questions you might have.