Aligned Data vs. Space Management Data

There is a misconception in the CPG industry on how to use GDSN Aligned Data measurements. Many people think the dimensions that are captured using Aligned Data Product Measurement Standards can be used for space management.   This is NOT always true.  The standards used to measure products for Aligned Data do not always correspond with the measurements that are needed in space management.   Aligned Data Measurement Standards even state that their product measurements are taken without consideration for shelf orientation.

The intent of Aligned Data product dimension measurements is finding the product cube for shipping purposes and is not specific to space management. For example, the Aligned Data measurements for a bread loaf are measured with the end (bottom/heel) of the loaf being the natural base and the “pony tail” (fastened package end) being the top of the product. Everyone knows this is not how the product sits on the shelf.  What is used as the natural base for Aligned Data ends up as the front of the product for space management.   

However, the measurement standards used for Aligned Data are not always wrong for space management.  In many cases the dimensions used for Aligned Data are also correct for space management.  The problem is you wouldn't be able to know when they aren’t correct in both instances.

Aligned Data Measurement Standards need to incorporate the space management measurements in those product categories for which they are not in agreement. The GDSN and PTRG are aware of this issue and will amend standards in the future accordingly. 

As a member of the PTRG, Product Technical Requirements Group, which is responsible for the Aligned Data Measurement Standards, Gladson Interactive is working to resolve the user confusion that currently exists.

Bruce Laffee
Gladson Interactive LLC
VP IT