Client Background
Our client is a precision cutting tools manufacturer serving industrial customers across North America. Their product catalog includes thousands of SKUs with technical specs critical for the right tool selection.
Problem
Customers struggled to find tools using technical specs. The client needed a system that allowed filtering by ISO 513 codes and other specifications, seamless CSV uploads, and future ERP integration. They also wanted to sunset their PIM and improve mobile usability.
The Solution
We designed a scalable product data architecture using Shopify metafields, enabling ISO 513 code-based filtering and other spec-based discovery flows. The new setup supports structured uploads, improves UX across devices, and lays the groundwork for SAP integration.
Challenges
- Normalizing complex ISO 513 spec data across products
- Creating intuitive filtering for highly technical users
- Designing a CSV schema to handle nested, mixed-type attributes
- Ensuring compatibility with Shopify’s native filtering tools
- Planning for upload limits and backup strategies
- Sunsetting a third-party PIM while maintaining data integrity
Approach
- Audited existing product data and user flows
- Created a comprehensive attribute schema with data types and categories
- Implemented Shopify metafields for each attribute using best-fit data types
- Built mobile-friendly filtering UI aligned with ISO 513 logic
- Developed CSV templates for structured uploads with spec guidance
- Removed Plytix PIM and implemented Rewind for backups
- Synced inventory with QuickBooks and scoped SAP integration
- Built discovery flows for ISO code, tool type, material, and special collections
- Customized PDP and collection pages to surface spec-based context
Results
- ISO 513-based filtering and hierarchy fully implemented
- Native Shopify search and filtering with custom metafields
- Structured CSV upload format for thousands of SKUs
- Seamless data transition from Plytix PIM
- Mobile-friendly filtering and PDP layout
- QuickBooks integration complete
- SAP integration scoped and scheduled for 2026
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