The first part of any Catalog Automation project is to map and analyse various data sources and business processes to inform the underlying solution design.
Numerous issues need to be considered, for example:
- Change control mechanisms of data – e.g. how often updated; real-time vs via export/import.
- Upstream and downstream uses of same data – e.g. use in website, iPad/iPhone app.
- Ability to store “publishing” data within suitable database – e.g. setting of templates, design rules.
- Desire for versioning & updates separate to catalog cycle.