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Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN)

Data management1/5/2026Intermediate Level

GDSN is an internet-based network that enables real-time, global exchange of standardized product information between trading partners. It ensures data consistency across the supply chain.

What is Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN)? (Definition)

The Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN) is a worldwide system that helps businesses share product information automatically. It allows suppliers and retailers to exchange data using a standardized format. This ensures that everyone in the supply chain uses the same accurate details. The system works through a network of certified data pools and a central hub called the GS1 Global Registry. When a supplier updates a product in their data pool, the system pushes those changes to the retailer. This process keeps product names, weights, and dimensions consistent across different databases. Using GDSN helps companies avoid manual data entry errors. It also makes it easier to follow industry regulations and manage logistics. PIM systems like WISEPIM often connect to these data pools to help businesses manage and distribute their product content more efficiently.

Why Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN) is Important for E-commerce

The Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN) is a network that lets businesses share product data automatically. It helps companies in industries like grocery and healthcare keep their information consistent across the entire supply chain. Manufacturers upload their product details to a central hub once. Retailers then receive this data directly into their own systems. This process removes the need for manual data entry and prevents common errors. For large webshops, using GDSN makes it much faster to add new products from thousands of different suppliers. Accurate data ensures that customers always see the correct weight, size, or ingredients online. WISEPIM helps businesses organize this data to keep every sales channel updated.

Examples of Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN)

  • 1A supermarket chain uses GDSN to collect data from food suppliers. This ensures that allergen and nutrition facts are accurate on packaging and websites.
  • 2A medical distributor uses GDSN to share product IDs and safety info with pharmacies. This helps them track items and follow legal rules.
  • 3A hardware store uses GDSN to get the latest tool details from manufacturers. This ensures that the product info on their webshop is always correct.

How WISEPIM Helps

  • GDSN data pool integration: WISEPIM links directly to GDSN data pools. This connection automatically shares product information with your trading partners.
  • GS1 standard compliance: WISEPIM helps your product data follow GS1 standards. This makes it easy to join and use the GDSN network.
  • Supply chain data quality: WISEPIM keeps your data accurate for GDSN exports. Clean data reduces errors and helps your supply chain run smoothly.

Common Mistakes with Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN)

  • Companies often fail to clean their internal data before syncing with GDSN. This leads to mismatched information and rejected files.
  • Many businesses treat GDSN as a one-time project. It actually requires constant work to keep product information current and accurate.
  • Submitting incomplete or wrong product details creates data quality issues. This makes it harder for retailers to sell your products.
  • Teams often forget to assign clear roles for data management. Without someone in charge, it is difficult to keep GDSN data organized.
  • Skipping a final check against GS1 standards leads to errors. You then have to spend extra time fixing and resending the data.

Tips for Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN)

  • Use a PIM system to organize and check your product information before you send it to the GDSN.
  • Create clear rules for your team and decide who is responsible for creating, approving, and uploading data.
  • Check your data often to make sure it meets GS1 standards and follows the rules set by your trading partners.
  • Use automation tools to change your internal product details into the specific format that the GDSN requires.
  • Join GS1 training sessions and industry groups to keep up with new GDSN updates and changing data rules.

Trends Surrounding Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN)

  • AI-driven data validation and enrichment: AI algorithms are increasingly used to automatically check GDSN data for accuracy, completeness, and compliance, and to suggest enrichments.
  • Integration with sustainability data: GDSN is evolving to support the exchange of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) attributes, such as carbon footprint and recycled content, to meet growing consumer and regulatory demands.
  • Enhanced data interoperability with PIM and ERP: Tighter integration between GDSN data pools and internal PIM and ERP systems ensures a single source of truth and reduces manual data handling.
  • Support for richer product content: Beyond basic attributes, GDSN is expanding to accommodate more complex product descriptions, digital assets, and marketing content for a comprehensive product experience.

Tools for Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN)

  • WISEPIM: Centralizes product data, ensures data quality, and facilitates seamless integration with GDSN data pools for compliant data syndication.
  • 1WorldSync: A leading GS1-certified data pool provider, enabling trading partners to exchange standardized product information through GDSN.
  • Akeneo: A PIM solution that helps businesses manage complex product information and often provides connectors for GDSN data synchronization.
  • Salsify: A Product Experience Management (PXM) platform offering PIM capabilities and robust channel syndication, supporting GDSN requirements.
  • atrify (formerly GS1 Germany): Another prominent GS1-certified data pool, offering services for GDSN data exchange and product content management.

Related Terms

Access Control (PIM)Attribute Dependency ManagementAttribute InheritanceAttribute mappingAttribute SetAttribute Value Normalization

Also Known As

GS1 GDSNglobal data synchronization