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Understanding ACES & PIES: The Backbone of Automotive Catalog Management

The automotive aftermarket thrives on accurate, efficient, and comprehensive catalog management. Whether you're a manufacturer, distributor, or retailer, ensuring that the right part matches the right vehicle is essential to your business's success. This is where ACES (Aftermarket Catalog Exchange Standard) and PIES (Product Information Exchange Standard) come into play.


These two standards are central to how product and vehicle data are communicated within the automotive aftermarket. In this post, we’ll break down what ACES and PIES software is, why it matters, and how understanding it can improve catalog management processes for your business.



What is ACES?


ACES (Aftermarket Catalog Exchange Standard) Logo

ACES stands for Aftermarket Catalog Exchange Standard. It is a standardized format used to organize and share vehicle application data across the automotive industry. Simply put,

ACES helps ensure that every product is correctly matched to the vehicles it fits.


Standardized Vehicle Fitment Data

ACES organizes data by defining consistent formats for vehicle make, model, year, engine type, and sub-model.

Compatibility with Vehicle Configuration Databases (VCDB)

ACES integrates seamlessly with VCDB, a database of standardized vehicle configurations used across the industry.

Minimized Errors

By using a consistent structure, ACES reduces mistakes in matching parts to vehicles.

Using ACES ensures that customers can confidently find the right parts for their vehicles, from essential components like brake pads to specialty parts like radiators.


What is PIES?


PIES (Product Information Exchange Standard) Logo

PIES stands for Product Information Exchange Standard. While ACES focuses on vehicles, PIES focuses on the parts themselves. It provides a standardized way to communicate detailed product information throughout the supply chain.


Comprehensive Product Details

PIES includes information like dimensions, weights, materials, and compatibility notes.

Supplementary Assets

Manufacturers and suppliers can attach digital assets like images, technical drawings, installation instructions, and videos.

Pricing and Warranty Information

PIES enables clear communication of pricing details and warranty terms.

With PIES, businesses can create more informative and appealing catalogs, helping customers make better decisions while reducing returns caused by incorrect or incomplete information.


Why Are ACES & PIES Important?


ACES and PIES software provides a shared language for the automotive aftermarket. Here's why they are essential:

Improved Accuracy

Ensures customers find the correct parts for their vehicles, reducing errors and returns.

Streamlined Operations

Simplifies the process of managing large datasets, making updates and maintenance more efficient.

Enhanced Customer Experience

Detailed and accurate product information builds trust and satisfaction.

Industry Standardization

These formats are widely used, enabling smoother collaboration between manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.


How to Start Using ACES & PIES Software in Your Business

Implementing ACES and PIES software effectively requires the right tools and strategies. Here are some key steps:


  1. Invest in a Product Information Management (PIM) System

    A robust PIM system organizes and manages your ACES and PIES data, ensuring it remains accurate and up-to-date.


  2. Regularly Update Your Data

    Vehicle and product information evolves frequently. Keeping your catalog current ensures you're meeting market demands.


  3. Educate Your Team

    Provide training to ensure your staff understands how to work with these standards and the tools that support them.


The Role of DataPoint


 DataPoint, we provide tools like Clarity Analytics to help businesses optimize their catalog data. While our Clarity Analytics focuses on reporting and identifying opportunities within your catalog, our Product Information Management (PIM) system ensures seamless handling of ACES and PIES data, keeping your catalog accurate and ready for the market.




Conclusion


ACES and PIES may seem complex at first, but they are vital for anyone involved in automotive catalog management. These standards create a common framework for sharing data, ensuring that customers can quickly find the right parts for their vehicles and that businesses can maintain efficient operations.


By understanding and implementing ACES and PIES software, you're not only improving the quality of your catalog but also setting your business up for success in a competitive industry.


If you're ready to explore how these standards can transform your catalog management processes, take the time to learn more about the tools and systems that support them. A well-managed catalog can make all the difference in delivering value to your customers and staying ahead in the market.

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