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“A few years ago, we used to manage around 15 different files that were filled in by hand.

The arrival of the FAB-DIS format coincided with the construction of our product database and our new website, which are also constantly evolving. We set ourselves the goal of deploying files in FAB-DIS format by 01/08/2015. To keep to this deadline, half of the data could be extracted directly from our new database, while the other half was still managed by hand as the information was only available to certain people or in other software programs. We then aimed to automate the export of as much data as possible, which would also require changes to internal processes.

The outcome is very positive. FAB-DIS has enabled us to:

– Check our data and identify inconsistencies between different systems or shortcomings in our internal processes,

– Educate and involve all departments in the quality and transmission of data,

– Save time: we have fewer requests for photos or manuals, etc.

Today, by sticking to this format and its development, we will become even more efficient both internally and externally.”

“This data exchange format, agreed by partners and counterparts, allows us to focus our efforts on the richness of our data and capitalise on the energy freed up by the fact that we no longer manage multiple formats. Our sector has to prepare itself for structural changes: widespread use of “Webshops”, a multi-channel customer journey, purchasing and logistics branches that are coming closer together, modes of transport to be optimised, product offers to be characterised on a technical level (integration of the ETIM tab), an evolving legislative environment (D3E taxes, transport and storage of hazardous products). The FABDIS format is a suitable response to these changes and is perfectly compatible with all business tools.”

“The FAB-DIS format has given us a single exchange format, agreed by distributors and manufacturers. The initial structuring of the data has meant that we save time as we no longer have to manage numerous files.

The ongoing enhancement of this file allows our distributors to display content-rich product data sheets on their websites and thereby offer real benefits to professional installers. Data quality is essential, especially with the development of e-commerce: a product whose information is complete has a much better chance of being sold.”

“The standardisation of exchanges between suppliers and distributors with the FAB-DIS format has simplified how we manage data. In the past, we had to handle different exchange formats on a case-by-case basis. Today, thanks to FAB-DIS, we have implemented standardised checking processes while verifying the consistency of the data in the main mandatory tabs and automatically populating our PIM. We can therefore offer to our members all of the elements necessary for the creation of multi-channel offers.

FAB-DIS has become a sustainable foundation, bringing together marketing and technical data (through ETIM, which is increasingly being adopted). We believe in using it across all of the different branches of our business.

We have improved our responsiveness and competitiveness by making our exchanges with suppliers simpler and more fluid.”

“Before the introduction of FAB-DIS, manufacturer data often reached us in a jumble. Depending on the supplier, some fields could lead to confusion. Between exchanges, the structure of files could change… It was difficult to determine a data-mapping process that was stable over time. We always had to check all of the data fields entering our system. Standardisation of the format (FAB-DIS) now means we can quickly check the completeness of the data. The file only needs to be mapped once. The whole sector uses the same language. This has enabled us to put in place a much more efficient data integration process. The new format has saved a great deal of time for the reference system department. It has enabled us to reallocate resources to the enhancement and checking of data. As for manufacturers, the names of the fields are explicit and our contacts understand what we expect of them more easily. As our manufacturers have switched over to the FAB-DIS format, we have noticed a clear improvement in the quality of the data, particularly in the case of the product data sheets that are accessible to all of our e-commerce customers.”

“Use of the FAB-DIS exchange format has enabled us to set up a data validation platform that is the same for all manufacturers. This saves us time and enables us to standardise the flows of product information and make exchanges of product data smoother and quicker.

Many of our suppliers have been consolidated and certain ETIM data has been successfully integrated.

As a leading player in the business, our Group is actively involved in the FAB-DIS committee, helping to deploy the format on the renovation, new build and home-finishing markets.”