Customers expect more than just a product image and price. They want every angle, every attribute, and the full story before they buy. Keeping that information accurate across teams and channels is too complex for spreadsheets. You need the right tools.
PIM and PLM each handle different sides of the challenge: PLM supports product development, while PIM makes sure the product is ready to sell.
This guide explains the difference between PIM and PLM, helps you decide which tool your business needs, and shows how Bluestone PIM bridges the gap between product data and product lifecycle.
What Is Product Information Management (PIM)?
Product Information Management (PIM) software is a platform for collecting, enriching, and distributing product data across multiple sales channels.
Instead of manually updating thousands of SKUs, PIM creates a single source of truth for product content. With API-first integration (700+ APIs), you can connect Bluestone PIM with your e-commerce sites, online marketplaces, print catalogues, mobile apps, and ERP systems.
Example: To sell 5,000 pairs of shoes and 2,000 accessories, PIM automates distribution of product descriptions, images, videos, and technical specs, ensuring every channel stays accurate and consistent.
Key takeaway: PIM accelerates product launches, reduces errors, and ensures customers see accurate, rich product information everywhere.
What Is Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)?
Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software manages all data and workflows across a product’s lifecycle, from design to manufacturing and launch.
PLM is often used in industries with complex engineering processes such as automotive, aerospace, and robotics. It centralises specifications, quality checks, change requests, and collaboration between design and manufacturing teams.
Example: A car manufacturer uses PLM to manage details of engines, batteries, and safety components across global supply chains.
Key takeaway: PLM is critical for managing product development complexity before a product reaches the market.
PIM vs PLM: How to Choose
Choose PLM if:
- ✔ You manage engineering data, prototyping, and internal collaboration
- ✔ Your workflows start with R&D or manufacturing
Choose PIM if:
- ✔ You need consistent, localised product content across e-commerce, retail, and marketing
- ✔ Your priority is selling products, not building them
Large businesses often use both. PLM gets the product ready and PIM gets it out the door.
Check out this video featuring an e-commerce manager from one of the major Dutch retailers, where they share their advice on which system to choose:
PIM vs PLM Comparison Table
| |
PIM (Product Information Management)
|
PLM (Product Lifecycle Management)
|
|
Focus
|
Product data enrichment & distribution
|
Product design, engineering & manufacturing
|
|
Users
|
Marketing, e-commerce, sales
|
Engineering, R&D, supply chain
|
|
Data
|
Attributes, digital assets, SKUs, pricing, localisation
|
CAD files, specs, quality checks
|
|
Goal
|
Accurate, rich product content across channels
|
Manage lifecycle from concept to launch
|
|
Best for
|
Retail, e-commerce, omnichannel
|
Automotive, aerospace, complex manufacturing
|
How PIM Supports Basic PLM
Advanced PIM platforms like Bluestone PIM extend beyond commerce enablement by supporting early lifecycle processes with:
Sharing product data with suppliers, partners, and customers
Connecting attributes and contexts for customer relevance
Managing product launch data (pricing, descriptions, attributes)
Storing and refining product development content for faster time to market
Integrating with ERP for seamless data flow
Why it matters: If your PIM can support lifecycle workflows, you reduce delays and avoid data silos. That means faster time to market.
PIM vs DAM: What’s the Difference?
The visuals, manuals, and media are what bring a product to life. That’s why businesses often ask: what’s the difference between PIM and DAM, and do we really need both?
PIM manages structured product data (attributes, specifications, pricing, localisation).
DAM (Digital Asset Management) handles unstructured content such as images, videos, documents, and creative files.
The most effective approach is to choose a PIM with integrated DAM capabilities. Bluestone PIM’s PBC DAM with Content Delivery Network (CDN) ensures marketing assets stay brand-consistent, protected, and instantly distributable.
The Bottom Line: Why Businesses Use PIM, PLM, or Both
PLM is for managing product development.
PIM is for managing product commercialisation.
Together, they ensure products reach the market faster and smarter.
If your organisation needs a composable PIM that supports both DAM and lifecycle workflows, talk to our experts to find the right approach for your team or book the free demo to see it in practice.
