GS1 UK | What is the Global Data Synchronisation Network (GDSN)?

What is the Global Data Synchronisation Network (GDSN)?

The Global Data Synchronisation Network (GDSN) is the world's largest product data network. It allows companies to share high-quality product information seamlessly and in real-time.

2 minutes

Overview

GDSN ensures that product information is accurate and up to date across all trading partners, which includes manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, and distributors.

Companies upload their product data to a certified GDSN data pool. This data is then synchronised and shared automatically with all their trading partners. GDS improves data accuracy, reduces errors, and enhances efficiency in the supply chain. It also helps in maintaining consistent product information globally

How It Works

Data Pools: Companies upload their product data to a certified GDSN data pool. These data pools act as repositories where product information is stored.
Synchronisation: The data pool synchronizes this information with the GS1 Global Registry, ensuring that all data is standardized and up to date.
Sharing: Once synchronized, the data is automatically shared with all trading partners who subscribe to the data pool. This ensures that everyone has access to the same accurate product information in real-time

To learn more about GDS, have a look at the GS1 Global Office website.

Benefits of using GDS

Improved Data Accuracy: By using standardised data, companies reduce errors and discrepancies, ensuring that all trading partners have the same information.

Enhanced Efficiency: Automated data sharing reduces the need for manual updates, saving time and resources

Regulatory Compliance: GDSN helps companies comply with various regulatory requirements by ensuring that product information is accurate and up to date

Better Collaboration: With accurate and consistent data, companies can collaborate more effectively with their trading partners, improving overall supply chain efficiency

Increased Visibility: Real-time data sharing enhances visibility across the supply chain, helping companies track products more effectively

GDSN is widely used by a variety of companies across different industries, including:

Retailers: Major retailers like Kroger, Lowes, and Amazon use GDSN to ensure they have accurate product information
Manufacturers: Companies that produce goods use GDSN to share product data with their distributors and retailers
Healthcare Providers: The healthcare industry uses GDSN to maintain accurate information about medical devices and pharmaceuticals, and can use it to submit data to regulatory databases

GDSN services are provided by GS1 certified data pools. GS1 UK’s data pool service is TrueSource: