ETIM

ETIM, short for Elektro-Technisches Informationsmodell, is a global open data model for product information used in the electrical, electronics, HVAC, plumbing, and related installation trades. It provides a standardized set of product classes and characteristics to describe items in a uniform way, enabling data exchange between manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and service providers. The model supports catalogs, data pools, ERP systems, and online marketplaces, with the aim of improving data quality and interoperability. It originated in Europe and is governed by ETIM International, a non-profit association coordinating development and regional adoption.

It uses a hierarchical structure of product classes and characteristics. Classes group products by function or application, while characteristics define attributes such as voltage, size, material, and installation constraints. Each characteristic has predefined data types, permissible values, units, and multilingual labels, allowing consistent data across languages and markets. The model is designed to be extensible to accommodate new products and technologies.

Governance and adoption: ETIM International oversees versioning, documentation, and global standardization. National ETIM bodies translate and promote the model within their regions and work with manufacturers and distributors to validate data provision. Many companies participate in ETIM-compliant data exchanges through data pools and supplier catalogs, helping harmonize product information across platforms.

Impact and challenges: By providing a common data language, ETIM supports faster catalog setup, improved search, and smoother cross-border trade. Implementing ETIM requires cooperation from suppliers to provide complete and accurate attributes, mapping existing data to ETIM classes, and maintaining data as products evolve.