8 Common GDSN Myths: What Industry Experts Actually Say

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8 Common GDSN Myths

Introduction

GDSN misconceptions can cost businesses valuable time, money, and opportunities in today’s data-driven marketplace. Despite being established back in 2004, the Global Data Synchronization Network remains surrounded by persistent myths that prevent many companies from leveraging its full potential.

We’ve spent years working with the GDSN system and have witnessed firsthand how these misunderstandings create unnecessary barriers. The GDSN definition is actually quite straightforward — it’s an automated, standards-based global environment enabling secure and continuous data synchronization between trading partners. Surprisingly, many don’t realize that a single GDSN data pool can provide extensive reach, even though only 33 percent of data pools effectively work together.

Unfortunately, these aren’t the only misconceptions clouding the truth. With over 3,000 item attributes available in the GDSN and industry leaders like Commport GDSN data pool responsible for over 30 percent of data activity on the network, there’s a significant gap between perception and reality. In this blog, we’ll examine eight common GDSN myths and reveal what industry experts actually say about this powerful but often misunderstood system.

Key Takeaways

  1. GDSN serves companies of all sizes through web-based interfaces and scalable pricing models, not just large enterprises with extensive resources.
  2. A single certified data pool connects you to all trading partners globally through interoperable network architecture, eliminating multiple subscription needs.
  3. GDSN handles standardized product master data only—pricing and promotional information require separate systems for complete data management.
  4. Modern GDSN offers real-time synchronization with quarterly updates, delivering 25% fewer data errors and 30% operational efficiency gains.
  5. Healthcare, foodservice, and manufacturing industries actively use GDSN beyond retail, with nearly 5,000 foodservice companies exchanging data via the network.

8 Common GDSN Myths

  1. Myth 1: GDSN is only for large enterprises
  2. Myth 2: You need multiple data pools to reach all retailers
  3. Myth 3: GDSN is just another name for EDI
  4. Myth 4: GDSN includes pricing and promotional data
  5. Myth 5: GDSN is too expensive for small brands
  6. Myth 6: GDSN is only useful for retail
  7. Myth 7: GDSN is outdated and slow
  8. Myth 8: GDSN is too complex to implement
Myth 1: GDSN is only for large enterprises

Many business leaders believe that implementing the Global Data Synchronization Network is exclusively for companies with vast resources and expansive product catalogs. However, this common misconception prevents numerous small and medium enterprises from accessing a powerful system designed for organizations of all sizes.

GDSN enterprise myth explained

The perception that GDSN requires enterprise-level infrastructure stems from visibility bias—we primarily see large retailers like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy utilizing the network. In reality, GS1 created the GDSN specifically to help all actors in the commerce space scale their businesses. The network currently serves more than 40,000 users with an impressive 22 million registrations across retail and other sectors like healthcare.

The myth persists because smaller businesses often assume implementing standardized data systems requires extensive technical resources. Furthermore, when companies see major retailers requiring GDSN compliance from suppliers, they may perceive the barrier to entry as prohibitively high. Nevertheless, the data shows a different reality—GDSN makes it possible for companies of any size anywhere in the world to share high-quality product information quickly and reliably.

Expert insight on GDSN scalability

According to GS1 experts, small and medium enterprises can access the GDSN through the same certified data pools as larger companies but with implementation approaches tailored to their needs. Most data pools recognize the unique requirements of smaller businesses and provide appropriate support for their implementation journey.

For smaller companies with limited item and party data to share, the most common access point is through a Graphical User Interface (GUI). This web-based interface allows direct data entry into a GDSN-certified data pool of choice, subsequently enabling automatic synchronization with trading partners whenever you add, change, or delete item data.

Industry specialists emphasize that the GDSN’s design supports businesses of various sizes:

  • Streamlined implementation options for companies with smaller product catalogs
  • Web-based interfaces requiring minimal technical expertise
  • Scalable subscription models from certified data pool providers
  • Simplified onboarding processes with trading partners

Additionally, smaller brands find value in using GDSN when their products are sold through multiple retailers, as it significantly reduces the complexity of managing diverse data requirements.

Real-world example of small business adoption

Small and medium enterprises across multiple industries have successfully implemented GDSN despite their size limitations. Moreover, these SMEs must adhere to the same rigorous industry standards and regulations as their larger counterparts.

One illustrative example comes from the healthcare sector. Care Essentials, a specialized patient warming company established in 1996, found that GS1 compliance provided substantial advantages for securing tenders and purchasing contracts. With a relatively modest product range and infrequent changes, the company discovered that compiling data for GS1 Browser Templates and loading the GDSN was worthwhile, particularly considering that most tenders prefer GDSN-compliant suppliers.

Similarly, Link Healthcare, an Australian-based pharmaceutical firm, initially joined GDSN due to requirements in state-based tenders. Initially viewing it as merely a compliance checkbox, they subsequently discovered additional benefits, including simplified customer ordering processes and improved data consistency between GDSN and their internal systems.

Orion Laboratories represents another success story. This SME began its GS1 Standards implementation journey in 2005, participating as the SME representative in a government-funded project. Following this initiative, the decision to expand GS1 Barcode usage was straightforward, driven by significant supply chain efficiency benefits—particularly the critical advantages of barcode scanning for transactions with Orion’s customers.

These real-world examples demonstrate that GDSN adoption isn’t limited by company size but rather enabled by finding the right implementation approach for your specific business needs and scale of operations.

Myth 2: You need multiple data pools to reach all retailers

A widespread misconception among supply chain professionals is that companies must subscribe to multiple data pools to connect with different retailers around the globe. This myth often leads to unnecessary complexity and additional costs for businesses entering the GDSN ecosystem.

GDSN data pool myth overview

The misconception stems from a fundamental misunderstanding about how the Global Data Synchronization Network operates. Many suppliers believe they need to join the same data pool as each of their trading partners, or maintain multiple data pool subscriptions to ensure connectivity across their distribution network. This belief is especially prevalent among manufacturers working with international retailers.

This myth gained traction partly because when the GDSN was established in 2004, a top provider was creating a perception in the market that its data pool was the must-use option. This misconception was strongest among large brand manufacturers.

Such market concentration led some to believe that trading partners needed to align their data pool choices or maintain multiple subscriptions for effective synchronization. Furthermore, as the global network expanded to include 44 GDSN-certified data pools, the perception of fragmentation only intensified.

How certified data pools interoperate

In reality, the GDSN is designed as “a network of interoperable data pools that enable master data synchronization among users”. This fundamental design principle ensures that all GS1-certified data pools work together within a unified system.

The interoperability works through a standardized process:

  • Manufacturers publish product information to their chosen data pool
  • The data pool publishes basic product information to the GS1 Global Registry
  • The registry makes this information available to subscribers
  • Trading partners can access the information regardless of which certified data pool they use

The technical exchange between data pools is quite straightforward – it requires only an exchange of connection details, such as Applicability Statement 2 (AS2) certificates, between GDSN data pools. While the original vision was complete interoperability, allowing trading partners to choose whichever provider best suits their needs, there have been some challenges in achieving full global connectivity.

Essentially, the network allows brands to join one data pool and synchronize data with trading partners who might use entirely different data pools. This connection means product data powers the global supply chain efficiently without redundant subscriptions.

Expert clarification on single data pool usage

GS1, the global authority on GDSN standards, explicitly states: “You may choose any GDSN-Certified data pool, not necessarily the same data pools as your trading partner. Also, you only need to select one data pool to connect with all of your trading partners”.

Industry experts consistently emphasize several key points about single data pool usage:

  1. In order to participate in the GDSN and register items in the GS1 Global Registry, trading partners must use a GDSN-certified Data Pool.
  2. All certified data pools offer GDSN storage and synchronization capabilities, although they may differ in additional services, information managed, and pricing models.
  3. GS1 maintains transparency about data pool connections, encouraging users to “check the connections each data pool has established with others and understand which would serve your business best”.

Before selecting a data pool, experts recommend reviewing the GS1 website for certified options and activity statistics. For data suppliers, it’s crucial to verify that your chosen data pool can support your specific customer’s requirements and attribute needs. Similarly, data recipients should investigate a provider’s implementation experience across relevant markets, countries, and industries.

To maximize the benefits of GDSN, selecting the right data pool is far more important than maintaining multiple subscriptions. The single connection delivers the global reach the system was designed to provide.

Myth 3: GDSN is just another name for EDI

In supply chain technology discussions, many professionals confuse two distinct systems that serve complementary purposes. This confusion leads to one of the most persistent gdsn misconceptions in the industry today.

GDSN vs EDI: Key differences

The Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN) and Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) serve fundamentally different functions despite both facilitating electronic business communication:

  • Purpose and content: GDSN enables the exchange of standardized product master data between trading partners, including attributes like weight, description, brand name, product information, GTIN, and manufacturer information. Conversely, EDI facilitates the digital transmission of transactional processes such as orders, order confirmations, delivery notes, and invoices.
  • Update frequency: GDSN involves continuous synchronization where changes to product information are automatically and immediately provided to downstream trading partners[34]. In contrast, EDI transmits individual business documents as discrete events.
  • Data permanence: GDSN maintains a persistent repository of master data that remains relatively stable. EDI handles temporary transaction data that represents specific business events.
  • Standards basis: Both systems utilize GS1 standards, yet GDSN operates through certified data pools within an interconnected network, whereas EDI typically uses UN/EDIFACT standards published in 1986.
  • Implementation approach: GDSN requires a connection to a certified data pool for ongoing data synchronization. EDI involves setting up document exchange protocols between trading partners’ computer systems.

Why this myth persists

Several factors contribute to the ongoing confusion between these distinct technologies:

Firstly, both systems operate within the same ecosystem of supply chain management and involve electronic data exchange, creating surface-level similarities. Furthermore, since GS1 governs standards for both GDSN and other technologies like EDI, barcodes, and RFID tags, many assume they represent the same technology under different names.

The technical nature of both systems often leads non-specialists to group them together as “data exchange methods” without recognizing their separate functions. Additionally, the complementary relationship between the systems—where master data synchronized through GDSN supports EDI transactions—blurs the distinction in practical implementation.

Expert explanation of GDSN meaning

According to GS1, the definitive gdsn definition is “the electronic transfer of standardized product information between trading partners and the continuous synchronization of that information over time”. This official gdsn meaning emphasizes its role in maintaining accurate, updated product information across the supply chain.

Industry experts consistently highlight that GDSN focuses exclusively on product master data—not transactional information. The network consists of interoperable gdsn data pools forming a global registry known as the GS1 Global Registry, enabling worldwide exchange of standardized and synchronized supply chain data.

Unlike EDI’s transactional focus, GDSN exists to ensure all trading partners have access to the same accurate product information. When joining a GDSN data pool, companies can share product data with all trading partners through a single connection, creating efficiencies impossible with transactional systems alone.

Ultimately, experts stress that businesses need both systems for optimal supply chain operations—GDSN providing the foundation of accurate master data upon which EDI transactions depend for successful commerce.

Myth 4: GDSN includes pricing and promotional data

One of the most prevalent gdsn misconceptions involves the types of data companies can share through the network. Many supply chain professionals mistakenly believe the GDSN transmits all product-related information, including pricing and promotional details.

What data GDSN actually supports

The Global Data Synchronization Network serves as a standardized channel for specific types of product information. Currently, GDSN primarily handles foundational product attributes needed to list, order, store, move, and sell products. These include:

  • Basic product identifiers (GTINs, category codes, brand information)
  • Physical characteristics (dimensions, weight, color)
  • Packaging information (materials, hierarchy, configurations)
  • Supply chain logistics data (shipping requirements, pallet configurations)
  • Regulatory compliance information (safety data, nutritional facts)

The gdsn meaning centers around standardized product master data—not variable commercial information. Every product within the network is assigned an identifier that houses all relevant core product data. For the system to function properly, this product information undergoes testing and validation against various standards and regulatory requirements.

Why is pricing excluded

Pricing data falls outside the GDSN’s scope for several practical reasons. First, pricing information tends to be highly variable and frequently changes based on market conditions, promotions, and negotiated agreements between trading partners. This volatility conflicts with the GDSN’s fundamental purpose of maintaining consistent, synchronized product information.

Secondly, price sensitivity and confidentiality concerns make centralized price sharing impractical. Many suppliers negotiate different pricing structures with various trading partners and would not want this information visible across their distribution network.

Most fundamentally, the GDSN was designed as a product information network, not a commercial transaction system. The GS1 Global Data Model standard explicitly focuses on the foundational attributes needed for commerce, intentionally excluding the more volatile elements like pricing that are better handled through direct business communications.

How to handle pricing outside GDSN

Given that pricing and certain eCommerce attributes generally cannot be shared through GDSN, companies must establish alternative channels for exchanging this information. This necessity often creates additional manual processes for both buying and selling organizations.

Many manufacturers and retailers address this limitation by:

  1. Utilizing existing EDI connections for transmitting price lists and promotional details
  2. Creating secure B2B portals where pricing information can be accessed by authorized partners
  3. Employing supplementary data synchronization solutions specifically designed for pricing information
  4. Sharing spreadsheets containing pricing data that complements the product information in GDSN

The separation between product information and pricing data means suppliers frequently need to maintain parallel systems. As the gdsn data pool providers have recognized this challenge, some offer complementary services for managing pricing data outside the standard GDSN framework.

Indeed, the limitations of the current standard have prompted data pools to develop workarounds, often creating solutions that help brands manage both standardized GDSN attributes and the critical commercial information that falls outside the network’s scope.

Understanding the gdsn definition and its boundaries is essential for effective implementation. Ultimately, GDSN serves as one component in a broader ecosystem of data synchronization tools, each addressing different aspects of the supplier-retailer relationship. By recognizing what GDSN does—and doesn’t—include, companies can develop comprehensive data strategies that leverage the right tools for each data type.

Myth 5: GDSN is too expensive for small brands

Cost concerns frequently prevent smaller companies from exploring GDSN implementation, creating a barrier based on outdated assumptions about pricing structures. This widespread gdsn misconception deserves careful examination, as today’s market offers more flexible options than many realize.

Understanding GDSN pricing models

GDSN data pools employ various pricing approaches that significantly impact affordability. Historically, some providers based their fees on a company’s total revenue—a model that resulted in contracts approaching $1 million annually for larger brands. Other providers determine costs based on the number of active SKUs or data recipients.

The official GDSN model includes a fixed fee of USD 15,000 plus usage fees based on subscription matches and GLNs. Yet contemporary providers have developed alternative pricing structures that make the network more accessible to businesses of all sizes.

From a technical perspective, GDSN data pools should function as commodity offerings with cost-plus pricing models. Nonetheless, substantial differences between providers have created varying value-based approaches that affect accessibility, especially for newer or niche brands.

Cost-saving strategies for small businesses

Small and medium-sized companies can access GDSN through several budget-friendly approaches:

  • Implementation options by company size: Providers like Commport GDSN data pool offer tailored solutions, including web-based user interfaces and spreadsheet load tools specifically designed for medium-sized businesses, while GS1 US Data Driver allows smaller companies to create and manage UPC barcodes with the core data needed for synchronization
  • Customized offerings: Modern data pools like Commport provide customized solutions based on required volume, with some offering completely free support for data pool changes and transfers up to a certain number of GTINs
  • Low-cost solutions: Providers increasingly offer cost-effective options specifically targeting small businesses, with streamlined features focusing on essential functions

Many data pools, like Commport, now handle nearly everything during implementation—from transferring product information without re-entry to supporting any necessary depublication and republication. This service-oriented approach minimizes internal resource requirements, further reducing the true cost of adoption.

Expert takes onthe  ROI of GDSN

Despite initial investment concerns, industry experts consistently highlight the substantial returns GDSN implementation delivers. Becton, Dickinson and Company achieved a 30% reduction in outstanding days payable and a 73% reduction in ordering discrepancies after implementation.

Organizations using GDSN typically experience a 25% reduction in data errors and a 30% increase in operational efficiency, according to GS1 USA research. These improvements translate directly to bottom-line benefits, with companies reporting up to 50% reduction in supply chain costs.

The GDSN definition centers on continuous synchronization of product information, which enables businesses to optimize transportation costs, minimize excess inventory, and reduce operational expenses. For small brands especially, these efficiencies create competitive advantages that offset initial implementation costs.

Commport GDSN Datapool Solution, a GS1 Certified GDSN Datapool Since 2005, is trusted by over 3000+ brands and retailers worldwide. Book a Free Demo Today to discover how their cost-effective approach makes GDSN accessible for businesses of any size.

Myth 6: GDSN is only useful for retail

A common gdsn misconception persists that the network primarily serves conventional retail environments, limiting its perceived value for other sectors. In reality, the gdsn meaning extends far beyond traditional retail applications.

Industries using GDSN beyond retail

Contrary to popular belief, the Global Data Synchronization Network supports numerous industries outside standard retail channels. The network’s standardized approach to product information makes it valuable across multiple sectors that rely on accurate supply chain data. Currently, thousands of organizations in various industries leverage GDSN:

  • Foodservice providers and distributors
  • Healthcare institutions and medical suppliers
  • Government agencies and educational institutions
  • Manufacturing and industrial supply chains
  • Automotive parts and equipment suppliers

The gdsn definition as “the electronic transfer of standardized product information between trading partners and the continuous synchronization of that information” applies equally across these diverse sectors. Each industry adapts the same core standards to address their unique product information needs, simultaneously maintaining global consistency.

Healthcare and foodservice examples

In healthcare, GDSN plays a crucial role in maintaining accurate product information. For instance, starting September 2021, the USDA required vendors to submit product information to GDSN for items purchased for the National School Lunch Program. This initiative helps fulfill requirements in the National School Lunch Act to make nutrition, allergen, and ingredient information readily available.

Likewise, the foodservice industry has embraced GDSN extensively. The Foodservice GS1 US Standards Initiative began in 2009 to help address industry challenges through GS1 Standards adoption. Today, nearly 5,000 foodservice companies exchange data via the GDSN, demonstrating its widespread adoption beyond retail.

In Australia, healthcare companies like Orion, Link Healthcare, and Care Essentials have implemented GDSN with notable results. Care Essentials, a patient warming specialist, found that being GS1 compliant provided substantial advantages for securing tenders and purchasing contracts.

Expert commentary on cross-industry use

Industry experts consistently emphasize GDSN’s cross-sector value. The Foodservice GS1 US Standards Initiative explicitly “considers use of the GDSN a core component for data quality”, highlighting its importance in maintaining accurate information throughout the supply chain.

Notably, GDSN’s application in healthcare focuses on enabling “healthcare trading partners to share trusted product data, locally and globally, in an automatic and efficient way”. Its one-to-many model makes it possible for hospitals to efficiently receive standardized product data.

Evidently, the gdsn data pool framework creates value wherever accurate product information matters. Data synchronization helps reduce errors, optimize inventory management, and enhance operational performance across all participating sectors.

Undoubtedly, as more industries recognize these benefits, GDSN’s cross-industry adoption will continue expanding beyond its retail origins. The myth that GDSN serves only retail ignores the system’s fundamental versatility in standardizing product information exchange across any supply chain.

Myth 7: GDSN is outdated and slow

Critics often label the Global Data Synchronization Network as sluggish and technologically stagnant, yet this gdsn misconception ignores significant advancements in recent years. Understanding the network’s evolution reveals a system designed for speed and adaptability rather than the bureaucratic dinosaur some perceive it to be.

GDSN update cycles and flexibility

The gdsn definition includes built-in mechanisms for regular enhancement through scheduled releases. From 2023 through 2025, the network follows a structured quarterly update schedule, ensuring continuous improvement without disrupting operations. This progressive approach allows the system to evolve while maintaining backward compatibility.

Previous major upgrades demonstrate this commitment to advancement. In 2016, GS1 launched GDSN Major Release 3, introducing new data attributes and enhancing system performance. Subsequently, in 2018, GDSN Major Release 4 focused primarily on improving data quality and increasing adoption across industries.

The GS1 System Architecture is intentionally forward-looking, supporting “adaptable, flexible solutions” that can evolve with changing market needs. This architectural approach enables the network to incorporate new capabilities without requiring complete system overhauls.

Recent improvements in GDSN speed

Among the most critical advancements is real-time data synchronization. Modern GDSN implementation empowers suppliers to “update product content immediately for all trading partners”. This instantaneous updating capability eliminates traditional delays in information sharing.

The synchronized data streamlines operations throughout the supply chain, as information flows without the manual interventions that previously slowed processes. Consequently, organizations can “adapt quickly to changes, better balance supply and demand, and make informed decisions” based on current information.

Expert view on GDSN modernization

Industry leaders emphasize GDSN’s evolution toward greater agility. Ardetha Bradley from Georgia Pacific notes that for modern implementations, “the theme is agility,” with multiple channels allowing companies to “meet customers in their markets and in their industry segments”.

Theresa Maher of Conagra Brands reports that with modern gdsn data pool providers, “new trading partner connections are really seamless”. Her team’s centralization of GDSN operations alongside other ecommerce functions demonstrates how the system integrates with contemporary digital commerce infrastructure.

These expert implementations highlight a key reality: the GDSN’s effectiveness depends largely on implementation approach rather than inherent system limitations. Organizations leveraging current best practices find the network responsive and adaptive, contradicting the outdated reputation that continues to persist.

 

 

 

 

Myth 8: GDSN is too complex to implement

The perception that implementing the Global Data Synchronization Network requires overwhelming technical expertise represents yet another gdsn misconception that prevents businesses from exploring its benefits.

Common implementation challenges

Many organizations initially struggle with data alignment, system integration, and compliance with GDSN standards when beginning implementation. These challenges often appear more daunting than they actually are. Divergence between global and local needs sometimes creates confusion during early stages. Nevertheless, with proper preparation, these hurdles become manageable stepping stones rather than roadblocks.

Support from GDSN-certified providers

Fortunately, certified data pools offer comprehensive assistance throughout the implementation journey. Many providers maintain 24/7 technical support centers, viewing themselves as business partners rather than mere vendors. Their expertise proves invaluable in creating project plans that outline every step from initial training to final item synchronization. GS1 itself offers an implementation toolkit with templates and guides showing exactly what businesses need to know to get started.

Real-world onboarding success stories

Commport GDSN Datapool Solution, a GS1 Certified GDSN Datapool Since 2005, is trusted by over 3000+ brands and retailers worldwide. Book a Free Demo Today to see how they can streamline your implementation process.

Actual implementation results speak volumes—businesses utilizing GDSN report a 25% reduction in data errors alongside a 30% increase in operational efficiency. These improvements stem from the network’s centralized, standardized platform that ensures all stakeholders access reliable information. From small healthcare companies to global retail giants, success stories across industries demonstrate that complexity concerns should not deter implementation.

 

Conclusion

Throughout this blog, we’ve dismantled eight persistent myths surrounding the Global Data Synchronization Network. Certainly, these misconceptions have prevented countless businesses from reaping the full benefits of this powerful system. GDSN stands as an accessible, versatile tool designed for organizations of all sizes and industries—not just large retail enterprises.

The reality remains that a single data pool provides sufficient connectivity across the entire network, eliminating unnecessary complexity and costs. Additionally, understanding the distinct roles of GDSN and EDI helps businesses implement complementary systems that optimize their supply chain operations.

Most businesses discover substantial returns after implementation, regardless of their size. The system continues to evolve through regular updates, offering increasingly efficient methods for data synchronization. Furthermore, the cross-industry applications demonstrate GDSN’s value beyond traditional retail environments.

Commport GDSN Datapool Solution, a GS1 Certified GDSN Datapool since 2005 trusted by over 3000+ brands and retailers worldwide, offers free demos today for businesses ready to explore implementation options.

The evidence overwhelmingly shows that GDSN delivers measurable benefits—from reduced data errors to increased operational efficiency. Companies that move past these myths find a system that strengthens their data management, enhances trading partner relationships, and ultimately drives business growth. Rather than viewing GDSN as an obstacle, forward-thinking organizations now recognize it as an essential foundation for effective commerce in today’s data-driven marketplace.

 

Commport GS1 Certified GDSN Datapool

Commport GDSN Datapool is a robust electronic solution designed to facilitate accurate and consistent exchange of product information among businesses. GDSN standards have been developed by GS1, a globally recognized standards organization, GDSN offers a standardized platform that enhances collaboration and operational efficiency among trading partners within the supply chain.

Download: GDSN Buyers Guide

Empower your business with global data synchronization; download our GDSN Buyer's Guide today and take the first step towards streamlined, accurate, and compliant product data management.

Frequently Asked Questions

GDSN is beneficial for businesses of all sizes and across various industries, not just large retail enterprises. Small and medium-sized companies in sectors like healthcare, foodservice, manufacturing, and automotive can leverage GDSN to improve data accuracy and operational efficiency.

No, you don’t need multiple subscriptions. A single GDSN-certified data pool is sufficient to connect with all your trading partners globally, regardless of which data pool they use. This interoperability is a core feature of the GDSN network.

GDSN primarily handles standardized product master data, not pricing or promotional information. It focuses on attributes like product identifiers, physical characteristics, and regulatory compliance data. Pricing and promotional details typically require separate systems or channels.

GDSN undergoes regular updates to stay current. From 2023 through 2025, there’s a structured quarterly update schedule. Major releases in recent years have introduced new data attributes and improved system performance, ensuring GDSN remains modern and efficient.

While implementation can present challenges, it’s not as complex as often perceived. GDSN-certified data pool providers offer comprehensive support throughout the process, including 24/7 technical assistance. Many businesses report significant improvements in data accuracy and operational efficiency after implementation.

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