Global data synchronization - An end-to-end perspective & solution framework

Successful merchandising of diverse products by retailers requires accurate, complete and consistent information of these items. Effective management of this information would benefit the supply chain with enhanced efficiency, increased speed to shelf, huge cost savings and better customer satisfaction. One of the key challenges faced by Retail and CPG industry is in the area of synchronization of master data among the trading partners. There is a global effort by EAN.UCC and GCI to develop the necessary standards for GDS. This paper analyzes the applicability of EAN.UCC standards to various participants of supply chain. It provides an analytical view of the EAN.UCC standards and examines the standards from a retailer and CPG manufacturer's perspective.