We know that content drives purchase decisions, and that Core and Enhanced content are what shoppers use to engage and buy online and in stores. But there are other required data sets, including those used for the Global Data Synchronization Network, or GDSN. This GDSN-defined content uses some of the same types of attributes as Core and Enhanced content – but it is not the same.
Syndigo is a GS1 Certified data pool, which means that we can handle any content requirements for the GDSN. But what specifically, do data pools do? Here’s a handy overview:
Q: What is a data pool?
A: At its core, a data pool is a group of organizations that use agreed-upon means to communicate information among trading partners, to enable automatic synchronization of data across systems. This improves speed and reduces confusion based on formatting differences or the way information is provided.
Wikipedia says that a data pool is a “Gateway to access the GDSN” – a group of solution providers and trading partners (such as food distributors and foodservice operators) who share data in a common and understood way.
Q: What information do data pools use?
A: The most basic piece of information exchanged in a typical data pool is the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) and possibly Global Location Number (GLN). The GTIN refers to the specific item, such as a bottle of shampoo or pair of blue jeans. A GLN refers to a location – like a warehouse, store, or even an exact spot on a store shelf.
Other information used by data pools are standard descriptions of an item’s physical attributes, like a product description, size dimensions, weight, how it is packaged, as well as things such as its product category, company address, or minimum order volume.
Q: What is a data pool provider?
A: A data pool provider is a technology or solution provider with the ability to provide access and deliver information to the network of suppliers and data recipients who utilize the GDSN Network. A data pool is the common point in the communication between the trading partners, in order to synchronize partner data.
Suppliers upload their data to a data pool, which is pushed to retailers, distributors or other data recipients. This communication takes place under common rules and standards, with the consideration the business agreements between trading partners. Data pools can operate within or across geographic regions, allowing them to share data with other data pools within inside the same data-sharing organization.
Q: What is a GDSN certified data pool?
A: While any solution provider can collect and synchronize data between trading partners, some are certified by GS1, which stands for Global Standards One. As the name suggests, the organization is the primary standards organization for assigning and managing the information and numbering schemes that global commerce relies on.
GDSN certified data pools operate together to allow collaborating users to securely synchronize their master data based on GS1 standards. GDSN supports accurate, real-time data sharing and trade item updates among subscribed trading partners.
Q: How do I become GS1 compliant?
A: The easy answer is to start with Syndigo! As a GDSN certified partner we can get you set up right away.
First, you obtain your own GTINs (if you don’t already have them), and create the proper barcodes needed for your items. From there, you simply share the product information with your trading partners. Our GS1 CIP page has all the information you need to get started.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our blog for updates.