Modern online catalog at RAFI with crossbase

RAFI has completely redeveloped its online catalog to create a modern and user-friendly solution. The integration into the crossbase PIM system and the use of the CMS crossbase.net ensure maximum reliability, up-to-dateness and data consistency.

The crossbase database model has a flexible and stringent structure. It can be used to map highly sophisticated data structures and correlations. In this way, we were able to successfully implement all the requirements for the functionality of the RAFI eCatalog.

Moritz Futterer
Product Manager, RAFI GmbH & Co. KG

Initial situation

RAFI needed a modern solution for presenting its product portfolio that is user-friendly on various end devices and can be made available internationally. The aim was to provide comprehensive product information and enable efficient product selection.

Procedure

The online catalog was created using the CMS crossbase.net, which is fully integrated into the PIM system crossbase. This ensured data consistency throughout. The completely newly developed online catalog offers a responsive layout that is optimized for desktop PCs, tablet PCs and smartphones. Various tools are available for the product search. Users can find suitable items either via an established product structure with visual support or using intelligent feature filters. The feature filters are dynamically adjusted based on the existing result set to make the search more precise. Alternatively, article number searches with auto-completion or a full text search can be used.

An extended filter logic makes it possible to transfer article features from linked articles to main articles. For example, users can filter illuminated pushbuttons using features that are only available on linked switching elements. After selecting a push-button, the corresponding switching elements are displayed on the item page. This means that both prefabricated combinations and freely combinable individual parts can be taken into account.

Extensive information has also been added to the article page. This includes tabular technical data, a 3D viewer integrated into the browser, CAD/STEP files, videos and brochures. Users can generate PDF data sheets with clickable links and save them locally. A watch list makes it possible to save products for inquiries and forward them directly to distributors.

Result

The new online catalog offers a modern, responsive design and is initially available in German and English. Users can intuitively find products, view comprehensive information and generate PDF data sheets. The dynamic filter functions enable targeted product selection and inquiries are forwarded directly to distributors. Further language versions will follow in the future.

Advantages

• Seamless integration: Connecting crossbase.net with the crossbase PIM system ensures consistent and up-to-date data.
• Intuitive product search: With feature filters, full text search and article number search.
• Detailed product information: Access to technical data, 3D models, CAD files, videos and downloads.
• Optimal user experience: Responsive layout for all devices and targeted filtering.
• Efficient inquiry management: watch list and PDF data sheets simplify the inquiry process.

About RAFI

RAFI is a global provider of innovative solutions in electrical engineering and electronics with headquarters in Berg near Ravensburg and international locations. The company offers a wide range of standard components such as pushbuttons as well as customized system solutions for sectors such as automotive, medical and industrial - always with a focus on quality and technological excellence.

Find out more about how RAFI optimally utilizes the advantages of the crossbase solution for its requirements:

To the RAFI Success Story