ETIM – The Standard Behind Reliable Product Data

One language for building, construction and electrotechnical industries.

In technical industries, product data is only valuable when it is accurate, structured, and understood by everyone. ETIM (European Technical Information Model) is the international classification standard that makes this possible. With ETIM, every product is described in the same logical way, across the entire supply chain.

ETIM is a product classification model designed to remove confusion from technical product information. It groups products into well-defined classes, with clear attributes such as size, material, color, or performance values.

  • Attributes are described in a language-independent format.

  • Each class contains synonyms, making it easier for users to find the right product (for example: pipe, tube, conduit).

  • Both technical properties and trade data can be exchanged electronically.

The result: products can be identified and compared quickly, without misinterpretation.

What is ETIM?

Value throughout the supply chain.

ETIM creates benefits for every link in the chain. From the factory floor to the final installation:

  • Manufacturers – classify once, share everywhere, reduce duplicate work.

  • Wholesalers & distributors – receive consistent data that can be used directly in catalogues and systems.

  • Professionals & installers – find the right product with accurate attributes, in their own language.

  • End users – benefit from fewer errors, transparent information, and reliable product choices.

With ETIM, the entire ecosystem speaks one shared language.

  • Higher data quality – one uniform structure for all product data.

  • Fewer errors – reduced risk of incorrect orders or costly mistakes.

  • Efficiency – no duplication, faster communication across the chain.

  • System-ready – compatible with ERP, PIM, CAD, and BIM systems.

  • Language-neutral – data can be used in multiple countries without rework.

Key Benefits of ETIM

ETIM is a global standard. It is already applied in countries across Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific, including:

Germany, France, Spain, the Netherlands, UK, Poland, Scandinavia, Canada, USA, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and many more.

This wide adoption means companies using ETIM are immediately compatible with international partners and markets.

International adoption

At Data Yard, ETIM is the backbone of our product data pool. Every dataset we manage is classified according to ETIM standards, ensuring that:

  • Manufacturers only need to provide data once.

  • Distributors and wholesalers can use it directly.

  • Professionals can search and find the right product instantly.

    With ETIM, Data Yard connects building, construction, and electrotechnical industries through one reliable, future-proof standard.

ETIM in Data Yard

With the upcoming Digital Product Passport (DPP), structured product data will become a regulatory requirement. By working with ETIM, companies are already one step ahead – their product data is structured, standardised, and ready for new compliance demands.

Preparing for the future: Digital Product Passport

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