The GS1 Global Data Model (GDM) and Attribute Definitions for Business (ADB) standards enable greater data quality within the GS1 Global Data Synchronisation Network (GS1 GDSN). The GS1 Global Data Model standard defines a globally consistent set of foundational product attributes needed to list, order, store, move and sell products.
Implementing the GS1 Global Data Model standards within GS1 GDSN will improve data accuracy and completeness for consumers across their omnichannel purchasing journey, and increase operational efficiency for brand owners, retailers and data pools.
By providing a consistent business language and usage statements for these foundational attributes, the ADB standard clarifies sometimes difficult technical terminology, and helps data senders get their content right.
Key benefits
According to a McKinsey & Company study, retailers and brand owners will benefit in both the near term and long term from the adoption of a standard data model.
McKinsey & Company, “Want to improve consumer experience? Collaborate to build a product data standard”, April 2020
How does the GS1 Global Data Model work?
The GS1 Global Data Model includes four layers to identify product attributes required for data exchange: Global Core attributes, Global Category attributes, Regional Category attributes and Country/Local attributes.
Global Core
The Global Core layer includes attributes that are required across all product categories globally. For example, the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) and Country of Sale Code are required for food products as well as cosmetics, toiletries, and all other product categories.
Global Category
The Global Category layer includes attributes that are required only within a specific product category, but are applicable at the global level. For example, storage temperature requirements for products within the FMCG Food category.
Regional Category
The Regional Category layer includes attributes that are required only within a specific product category, and applicable only within a specific region. For example, an allergen statement is mandatory in North America due to regulatory requirements, but may not be mandatory in other regions.
Country (or Local)
The Country/Local layer includes attributes that are required only within a specific product category, and applicable only within a specific location within a region. For example, packaging material quantity is mandatory in some countries, but not others. Attributes in this layer are often defined by local regulation.
What is the Attribute Definitions for Business (ADB) Standard?
Required product attributes, and definitions of those attributes, can vary greatly by retailer and region. This creates confusion at the consumer level, and additional costs and complexity for businesses. In collaboration with industry, GS1 has facilitated a global effort to address data inconsistencies, particularly in a consumer-focused model.
The GS1 Attribute Definitions for Business (ADB) standard provides simplified, business-friendly names, definitions, examples and usage statements for each of the products attributes within the GS1 Global Data Model to help data senders get their content right.
