Francfranc undergoes a digital makeover with PIM/DAM integration

Francfranc's solution began revealing vulnerabilities as it struggled to meet increasing demands, especially regarding data integration and API integration. The system's limited search and integration capabilities, as well as data entry constraints, have made it less effective at managing product information. For example, it restricted the number of input fields available, making the data entry and enrichment process more difficult. To add to the complexity, core information and images were stored separately, leading to a fragmented and time-consuming search process across multiple systems — especially when dealing with large data volumes.

Addressing these challenges required a comprehensive analysis of the status quo and the subsequent introduction of a unified standard. The key objectives were to minimize errors during data entry through predefined workflows and effective access management, and ultimately provide customers with rich, accurate, and consistent product information. In line with its digital transformation initiatives, Francfranc aimed to migrate its product information management to the cloud. It soon became clear that the next step would be to switch to professional cloud-based Product Information Management (PIM) software that was already prepared to handle all essential application scenarios by default.

• Reduced internal maintenance efforts through PIM as a single source of truth
• Automated workflow functionality to streamline approval processes and data onboarding
• Easy data enrichment, supported by role and rights management to ensure data governance
• API integration to enhance connectivity and interoperability with its existing tech stack and other systems
• Centralized digital assets (photos, illustrations, video, and audio) with a Digital Asset Management (DAM) system
• Quick, one-click search for the latest information on each item
• Cloud computing capabilities for increased flexibility and scalability
• System costs

A rigorous testing phase was conducted to validate the system’s functionality. Identified issues during testing were promptly resolved, ensuring the final implementation adhered to Francfranc’s quality standards. Initial feedback from end-users and stakeholders showed positive responses to the enhanced workflow and streamlined processes. These insights guided additional refinements to improve user experience. The implementation followed a phased approach, accomplishing key milestones at each stage. This encompassed successful API integration, customization of workflow functions, and the implementation of dynamic pricing.

Streamlining collaboration between product registrants and approvers, especially with diverse product categories, was a key task. To achieve this, a customized workflow system was developed that simplified the approver selection process with minimal effort. Moreover, the system was tailored to match the unique categorizations, approval procedures, or other aspects associated with products in each retail channel. Digital assets were also integrated and tagged in the system using Contentserv’s flexible DAM component. Furthermore, the solution was configured to automate price adjustments during sales, streamlining pricing management for promotions and improving efficiency.

In addition to restructuring and optimizing largely manual processes, PIM’s implementation has triggered numerous development steps. The system’s flexibility enables ongoing enhancements and customization, fostering adaptability with features like API integration, workflow revisions, and automated inheritance structures. With Contentserv’s cloud-based solution, Francfranc can effortlessly manage comprehensive in-store and online product data. Contentserv’s Digital Asset Management (DAM) has optimized the management and distribution of up-to-date digital content for a consistent customer experience.

Beyond product experience, the adoption of Contentserv has streamlined team efficiency. Collaboration across departments and regions improved as workflows became optimized, resulting in efficient task management, and consistent and complete data output. With automated enrichment, customizable workflows, and real-time synchronization, Francfranc is able to ensure data consistency across diverse sources. With version control and access management, the company can track changes, control user permissions, and maintain data integrity.

Thanks to optimized workflows, the online offering can continue to be expanded according to an ambitious schedule. Looking ahead, Francfranc remains aligned with its vision of achieving Offline Merge Online (OMO). PIM is set to play a crucial role as an intermediate server, with plans to effectively share product information on a large scale and distribute even larger quantities of enriched product content to other channels and markets with the support of Contentserv. The ongoing partnership with DNP will provide continued support, contributing to efficient solutions that elevate Francfranc’s presence in the retail sector.