Introduction to DataKart
DataKart is the National Product Data Repository for storing and managing product data at one place. It was launched in the year 2011 to streamline product data management and accelerate business operations by making product data sharing simpler. Since manufacturers themselves upload product information on the DataKart platform it reduces the flow of incorrect information in the market. It contains comprehensive details on products such as manufacturing details, expiry date, usage instructions, storage conditions, nutritional information, product unique identification number, etc.
DataKart shares information with Verified by GS1 portal, GS1 Global Registry and the Smart Consumer app. This ensures information is consistent across all platforms and is available to all in a structured and standardised manner. Since DataKart stores data on products at one place it is called a product data repository, it also gets synced with local product storage systems.
What is a Product Data Repository?
Repository refers to a storehouse of a specific set of product, information, formats etc. A product data repository is a storehouse of comprehensive product details related to a variety of products, manufactured by different businesses. It facilitates sharing critical information on products with stakeholders throughout the product’s lifecycle and fosters transparency in the supply chain. This repository allows businesses to manage and store data on products at a centralised location, improving data quality, eliminating information duplicates, and promoting detailed information accessibility.
When data is stored in a centralised location, this makes it easy for businesses to access and control it. Additionally, when all local systems are integrated with a single data management platform, it helps mitigate counterfeits.
Key Features of DataKart
DataKart not only facilitates early detection and prevention of counterfeits but also has numerous other features and benefits for businesses. Some of them are mentioned below –
- Barcode Generation – Through DataKart, businesses can easily generate and download barcodes for their products. They need to generate GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) and download it in a barcode format of their choice. This barcode can then be printed and applied on retail products.
- Product Data Management – With DataKart, businesses can easily manage and share product data at one place. They can upload product data, customise product data fields, add new products and delete irrelevant data.
- Timely Implementation Support – Businesses get timely implementation support whenever needed. They also have the opportunity to connect with live agents and can raise queries on live chatbots to troubleshoot instantaneously.
- Smart Consumer app – DataKart shares information with Smart Consumer app. The application is developed for the consumers to access complete, detailed and accurate information on products at one place. Smart Consumer app sources all the information that is uploaded by manufacturers on DataKart, empowering consumers in their journey to smart buying.
- Promotion through GS1 Digital Link – With DataKart, businesses can create 2D barcodes and insert URLs to their website or product landing page by encoding GS1 digital link. This URL can further promote availability of detailed product information, video links and more.
- Regulatory Compliance – DataKart is the only platform that is developed by GS1 India to streamline product data management and promote correct information flow. The platform is developed on GS1 standards and empowers businesses in meeting regulatory requirements.
Benefits of Using a Cloud-Based Product Data Repository
Cloud computing is a set of services that includes portfolio management, data storage, information sharing, database creation, multiple-party networking, and analytics. Cloud services are used worldwide for data storage and recovery, big data analytics, and drawing marketing and sales insights. A Cloud-Based Product Data Repository offers several key benefits:
- Centralized Access: You have the ability to store all your product data in one secure, cloud-based location, making it easily accessible from anywhere. This enables seamless collaboration.
- Scalability: As your product catalog expands, a cloud-based product data repository can scale effortlessly to handle growing data volumes, eliminating the need for costly hardware upgrades.
- Real-Time Updates: You can ensure that any updates made to product information are instantly reflected across all users and devices, keeping your teams aligned with the latest data and improving decision-making.
- Cost-Effectiveness: By using a cloud-based infrastructure for product repository, you avoid the high costs of maintaining on-premise storage.
- Security: Robust cloud security measures, including encryption, and regular backups, to ensure your product data remains secure and protected from unauthorized access.
- Integration: Cloud-based repositories can integrate seamlessly with other tools like eCommerce platforms, inventory management, and ERP systems, optimizing workflows and boosting efficiency.
Overall, a Cloud-Based Product Data Repository enhances operational efficiency, reduces costs, and improves data accuracy and accessibility for businesses managing complex product catalogs.
How DataKart Utilizes Cloud Computing
DataKart uses cloud computing, which involves online storage and retrieval of product information.
- DataKart offers numerous opportunities for improving business operations. It enables brand owners to share SKU data with retailers/e-tailers in a consistent and structured manner. GS1 India’s traceability service also uses DataKart for real-time tracking of products in the supply chain.
- It empowers consumer apps like Smart Consumer and provides access to product data, the ability to authenticate, share with marketplaces. DataKart overcomes the challenges of traditional data sharing where the probability of missing out on information is much higher.
- DataKart repository acts as a single source of information for brand owners, retailers/online marketplaces, solution providers, and consumer apps. Unlike traditional information sharing, DataKart offers automated sharing of information, leading to better accuracy and real-time delivery.
- DataKart issues and manages barcode numbers for trade items and manages data on the repository. These codes provide a unique identity to products and enable manufacturers to trace them across the supply chain. DataKart stores product details – product ID, size, color, shelf life, etc., and facilitates third-party integration.
- It is a trusted database, populated directly by brand owners. DataKart eliminates multiple needs of compiling and sharing the data. DataKart automates the entire process of information sharing, saving a lot of time.
Implementing DataKart in Your Organization
DataKart is absolutely free and you can harness DataKart’s potential once you get registered with GS1 India for barcodes. Upon registering you will be allotted the Global Company Prefix (GCP) that can be used to login to your DataKart account and start generating GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers). Here is a step-by-step process of registering with GS1 India for barcodes –
Step 1: Visit GS1 India’s ‘Register for Barcode’ page or you can follow this link – https://www.gs1india.org/content/register-for-barcodes/
Step 2: Go to the Registration Form and click on the Register Now button.
Step 3: Complete the form by providing all your details, submit your company documents as and where asked and pay the one-time registration fees.
Step 4: Submit the form. You will receive a call from the GS1 India registration team to confirm your registration for GS1 barcodes and after 7-10 working days you will be provided your GCP and barcode allotment letter.
Conclusion
A product data repository is absolutely necessary for businesses of any scale. DataKart is based on the global supply chain standards and helps businesses in complying with the regulatory standards and global unique identification structure. With businesses fast-moving towards embracing technological breakthroughs, it is essential they leverage this cloud-based product data management platform to harness its benefits and achieve process efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to get a barcode?
You can get registered for barcodes by completing the barcode registration process with GS1 India.
2. How to generate barcodes in DataKart?
You can generate GTINs for your products on the DataKart platform. Based on your requirements you can select the type of barcode you want to download for your products.
3. What is a product repository?
Product repository refers to a storage of comprehensive details on products being sold in the market.
4. Can I generate my own barcode?
Yes, by registering for GS1 barcodes you will be provided your GCP (Global Company Prefix) for DataKart login. You can generate GTIN and then barcodes through the DataKart platform.
