Product data & data quality
Product data & data quality: Clear information for buyers and sellers
Accurate product data reduces questions, returns and misunderstandings. This article explains which details matter and how sellers can maintain them practically.
Why accurate product data matters
Clear product data forms the foundation for satisfied customers and efficient operations. Shoppers often decide from the title, images and a short description alone. Missing dimensions, unclear variants or incomplete mandatory information lead to questions, wrong orders or returns. For sellers, accurate data means less support work, better visibility in search and filters and easier integrations with marketplaces or comparison sites. Clean data also supports internal processes: logistics, procurement and accounting run more reliably when SKUs, weight and technical specs are correct.
- Fewer questions and returns
- Better visibility on shops and marketplaces
- Easier automation and exports
- Consistent basis for marketing and catalogues
Mandatory details and legal basics: Some information is mandatory for legal reasons. This can include country of origin, energy labels for electrical goods, safety warnings and seller contact details. Sellers should check which rules apply in Switzerland for their product categories. Basic data like GTIN/EAN, manufacturer and item number should be recorded for every product. Missing mandatory information can cause returns or legal issues. A practical approach is to keep a checklist per product group to ensure nothing is overlooked when new items are added.
- Check legal requirements for each product category
- Record GTIN, manufacturer and internal item numbers
- Use a checklist per product group
Variants, dimensions and technical specs: Variants such as colour, size or storage capacity must be clearly structured. Each variant needs its own identifier and specific data for dimensions, weight, material and technical characteristics. Avoid vague statements like “fits many models”. Instead, provide compatibility lists, dimensions in millimetres and clear performance values. For technical products, list voltages, connectors or power ratings; for clothing, provide measurements and care instructions. Consistent units and a uniform format help shoppers compare variants easily.
- Each variant with its own ID and clear attributes
- Dimensions in mm/cm and weight in g/kg
- Technical data precise and in consistent units
Categories, descriptions and ongoing maintenance: Good categorisation and clear product texts improve findability and buying decisions. Choose category structures that match how customers filter and search. Start descriptions with a concise summary that lists key features, then add details and use cases. Maintain metadata like keywords, short and long descriptions separately. For ongoing data quality, use templates, required fields in your PIM or shop backend and regular checks. Define who creates data, who verifies it and how updates are rolled out.
- Pick categories so filters make sense
- Short description for quick decisions, long description for details
- Regular data checks and clear responsibilities
This guide was created with AI assistance and published automatically. Binding product details are shown on the linked product pages.