The automotive industry continues to undergo a significant transformation, surfing the wave of non-stop advancements in digital technology. 

For the industry to remain competitive and meet the evolving demands of end-consumers, dealerships and auto-parts businesses in this sector, it must adapt to the digital age and address the increasing complexity of data. 

So, from car makers to aftermarket parts manufacturers, the need for an efficient Master Data Management (MDM) system to address the inherent challenges has become crucial.

The digital transformation being seen in the automotive industry involves not only the integration of new technologies but also a fundamental shift in how data is managed and utilised across various domains. 

In this blog, we will explore the critical aspects of this digital adaptation and how MDM tools can streamline internal processes and ensure consistent, up-to-date information sharing, adhering to industry standards like ACES and PIES in the US and TecDoc in Europe.

MDM: A Single Source of Truth

The STEP MDM solution by Stibo Systems is designed to help manage parts, vehicle, and equipment information all in one place, integrating with and updating internal business systems with the latest product content. 

By consistently providing high-quality, complete content to all stakeholders in the required data formats, manufacturers can improve their brand value and strengthen relationships with their retailers and distributors by building trust in the information they provide.

And with a single view of the customer, marketing can execute digital activities with targeted, more effective messaging and product offerings.

Multi-Domain Data Management for Deeper Insights

In this digital age, it is a necessity for an organisation to be able to integrate data from across the organisation and its domains - sales, customer feedback, supply chain logistics, and vehicle performance to allow for deeper insights and more informed decision-making. 

By relating data across domains, companies can identify patterns and trends, leveraging that information to enhance operational efficiency but also drive innovation and product development to the satisfaction of the end customers.

Defining Vehicle Configurations

Accurate vehicle configuration data is crucial for manufacturers, dealers, and consumers. 

Being able to define vehicle configurations involves capturing detailed information about each vehicle model, including specifications, features, and options. This data must then be meticulously maintained and easily accessible to stakeholders to ensure that customers receive accurate information and can make informed purchasing decisions. 

A typical vehicle is made up of around 30,000 parts, each with their unique attributes, requiring precise management within a complex supply chain. Plus with the increase in global automobile sales of Electric Vehicles (EVs), expanding model inventories, advancing technology, evolving consumer expectations and data management emerge as focal points that need the help of an MDM solution.

Effective vehicle configuration management also supports inventory control, production planning, and after-sales service, making it a cornerstone of the digital automotive landscape.

Read more:  How the Automotive Industry Uses MDM to Tackle Data Management Challenges

The Importance of Fitment Data

One of the biggest pain-points of data management in the automotive industry is the need to maintain and update make, model, and year information for auto parts, also known as application data. This requirement holds true for both the OEM and aftermarket parts manufacturers, distributors, and retailers all of whom are locating / placing replacement parts.

Fitment data, details which parts and accessories are compatible with specific vehicle models. Accurate fitment data ensures that customers purchase the correct parts, reducing returns and enhancing customer satisfaction.

This data must be precisely managed and regularly updated to reflect changes in vehicle models and part specifications. 

Accurate Data Creation and Exporting Data

Creating accurate data is only half the battle; the ability to export this data in a usable format that needs to be harmonised and standardised. This is particularly true for the interchange information, which cross-references the part number for an auto part with other part numbers for hundreds of thousands of products/SKUs and vehicle configurations, as well as millions of part-to-vehicle relations and interchange records.

For automotive companies, this means ensuring that all data, from vehicle configurations to fitment details, is not only accurate but also usable in the various applications and systems. 

This requires robust data management solutions that can handle large volumes of data and facilitate seamless data exports. Being able to export data is essential if an organisation is going to be able to support reporting, analytics, ensuring compliance and customer communication.

The Stibo Systems' STEP MDM solution provides a unified and single source of truth for all the product data, including make, model, and year information for auto parts. This capability is vital as it allows companies to manage data from different sources, in diverse formats, and of varying quality levels. 

Read more: What Is Stibo STEP & How Can It Help Your Business?

Streamlining Processes with MDM Workflow Tools

STEP MDM uses a workflow automation process to streamline data management tasks, reduce errors, and improve efficiency. 

By defining workflows within a STEP MDM solution it can help ensure that data is handled consistently and accurately throughout its lifecycle. This structured approach not only enhances data quality but also supports regulatory compliance and operational transparency.

Capturing and Cleansing Migrated Data

When migrating data from legacy systems to new platforms, ensuring data integrity is paramount. 

The STEP MDM platform provides robust tools and capabilities for capturing and cleansing data during the migration process. These tools can identify and rectify inconsistencies, duplicate records, and other data quality issues, ensuring that the migrated data is clean, accurate, and ready for use. 

This cleansing process is essential for maintaining the reliability of data and supporting the overall digital transformation of the automotive business.

Consistent and Up-to-Date Information Sharing

In a rapidly evolving industry like automotive, sharing consistent and up-to-date information is critical. 

STEP MDM facilitates the dissemination of accurate data on parts and products across the organisation and with external partners. This ensures that all stakeholders have access to the latest information, supporting efficient operations and informed decision-making. 

Speaking the Same Language

Exchanging product information about car parts in the automotive supply chain is a crucial yet complex process, given the multitude of different part types and characteristics.

Implementing an MDM solution requires adherence to automotive industry standards such as PIES (Product Information Exchange Standard) and ACES (Aftermarket Catalog Exchange Standard) in the US and TecDoc in Europe.

These standards are used by manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and software providers to ensure that product information is communicated consistently and accurately across the supply chain. 

Compliance with ACES/PIES, and TecDoc is crucial for maintaining data integrity and facilitating seamless information exchange between manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers. 

An effective MDM solution will incorporate these standards, providing the seamless exchange of high-quality data, simplifying the process of data transfer between manufacturers and traders.

STEP by Stibo Systems fully supports ACES/PIES and TecDoc standards, helping automotive companies across the supply chain leverage these established benchmarks to the benefit of their customers.

Embracing the Digital Future

The automotive industry must embrace digital transformation to remain competitive in the modern marketplace. By adopting advanced data management practices and tools, automotive companies can ensure accurate, up-to-date information, streamline processes, and gain deeper insights across multiple domains. 

Master Data Management solutions, in particular, play a crucial role in this transformation, helping automotive companies navigate the complexities of the digital age and meet the demands of an ever-changing industry landscape.

Read more: How to Get Started on Your Master Data Management (MDM) Journey

How Unit of Measure Powers the Automotive Industry 

Unit of Measure is a trusted partner in the implementation of Stibo Systems' STEP solution. Our team is composed of seasoned professionals with an in-depth understanding of STEP's features and capabilities and we guide businesses in leveraging this powerful tool to meet their specific needs. 

Our approach includes a comprehensive analysis of your current data management processes, followed by a customised implementation plan designed to optimise and streamline your operations.

Let us know if you are just starting out on your MDM journey and are interested in Unit of Measure performing a remote audit of your status quo. 

Get in touch with us today and let us demonstrate how STEP can take your business to the next level. Together, we can make your data work harder for you.

Book a free consultation call with us today to learn more about how we can help.

Also check out our video series How To Get Started on Your MDM Journey.