DIAMOND BAR, Calif. – The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) has launched its live production system, and the 300 participating companies are now preparing to migrate into the newly developed Product Information Management System (PIMS). Since the co-op began its beta test phase in April 2012, 170 suppliers and 130 receivers have joined the program.
 
The SEMA Data Co-op is an industry-owned and operated project designed to bring full product data management capabilities to participating suppliers at the lowest possible cost. Features include a secure, industry standards-based centralized data repository, extensive on-boarding tools, expert live training and technical assistance and unlimited standard or fully customized data exports.
 
"The launch of the program is a key milestone that we are all very excited about," said Bob Castle, VP of e-business and information technology for the SDC. "It brings to bear the most thorough and accurate data management system the industry has seen, enabling suppliers to maintain total control of their data while meeting each receivers specific data needs."  
 
The SDC’s solution includes comprehensive data validation tools, unlimited secure storage and an easy-to-use Web interface for supplier members to manage their product data. Additionally, data receivers can get exports formatted specifically to their requirements, and can manage delivery of data through a versatile scheduling tool.
 
Jon Wyly, CEO of the SDC, commented, "It’s been a challenging project to build this technology, but we have a great product that we will continue to enhance with ongoing development. We have the best data experts available making it all happen."
 
The SDC encourages all suppliers and receivers to join the co-op and experience the expert help desk services and state-of-the-art technology. There are no set-up fees or costs to sign up. Membership fees don’t begin until data is flowing.
 
To learn more about the program, visit www.SemaDataCoop.org.