Currently, suppliers can create duplicate Product IDs (PIDs) for the same product, even when the only difference is minor attributes like pack size, and the total quantity is identical. For example:
Both PIDs represent the same product (24 cans of Coors Light) but are treated as separate entries. This creates several challenges:
Increases the volume of unnecessary data in the system.
Complicates spend analysis by dividing spend across duplicate entries.
Proposed Solution:
Introduce a process during supplier product uploads that identifies and suggests existing PIDs for matching when applicable. This could include:
Allowing new entries only when there is a clear distinction.
A feature to dynamically display similar products already in the system based on product attributes.
Encouraging suppliers to select an existing PID if their product matches one already in the database.
Benefits:
Streamlined and accurate product database.
Better spend analysis by consolidating data under the correct PIDs.
Reduced administrative burden on the platform by minimizing duplicate entries.
This change would significantly enhance the quality of data and reporting on the platform while improving the user experience for all stakeholders.
