Unique product identifier: definition and role in PIM

In PIM practice, the unique product identifier is the key that connects physical products to digital records. Depending on the regulation and product group, the identifier may apply to a model, a batch or an individual item. GTINs, serial numbers and batch numbers are common building blocks.

Illustrative example: a battery manufacturer identifies each model by GTIN and each unit by serial number. The passport for a unit resolves through a QR code that encodes both, using GS1 Digital Link.

In a selection, buyers should check whether the PIM can store and validate identifiers at the levels their regulations require. Model-level data usually sits in the PIM. Item-level data often sits in other systems, with the PIM supplying model-level attributes to the passport.