A useful catalogue is both a sales tool and an operational record. The information that helps a customer choose the right item should also help staff identify and pick it.
Make identifiers consistent
Choose one stable retailer SKU for each saleable variant. Keep manufacturer and supplier references in separate fields. Different colours, sizes or pack quantities should not share a stock identifier if they are picked and sold separately.
Explain the selling unit
State whether the price is for an item, pack, length, bag or area. Where customers compare unit prices but order in packs, show the relationship clearly. Ambiguous units can cause quantity errors even when the checkout calculation is technically correct.
Use informative images and descriptions
Include dimensions, materials, intended use and relevant limitations. Confirm that the business has the right to use each image and description. Avoid copying unsupported performance claims from supplier material without checking them.
Add fulfilment information
Record weight and packed dimensions where delivery depends on them. Flag collection-only, fragile, heavy or restricted products. A catalogue entry is incomplete if the product can be purchased but no suitable handover method has been established.
Assign ongoing ownership
Prices, packaging and availability change. Give someone responsibility for updates and define a review process for discontinued products. Test a sample import and compare the resulting storefront with the source records before publishing a large batch.
Take this into your next review.
Choose one real product and one realistic order. Walk through the steps with the people who do the work, record the gaps and agree who will resolve them.
Explore Managed digital commerce or discuss your store with Vehoo.