Using SKU as a unique product identifier can be problematic due to the different formats and potential for ambiguity. Product managers, eCommerce managers, data analysts, and the like should stop adding single attribute words to the unique identifier fields of a product page. When using an advanced customer feedback analytics tool like Wonderflow's, we need codes to reference product pages (and therefore reviews) to product cards, and using an SKU value that is not a good unique identifier can create havoc. Let's explore the different types of SKUs.
SKU formats vary significantly across product categories and brands. Some codes, used as SKUs, are unique numerical identifiers like "ECAM 22.110" or "HD9630/98" that accurately distinguish products. Some brands instead use non-unique codes for product attributes like color and size.
For example, some consumer electronics brands use words like "Black" or "White" as SKUs for certain headset models. However, we cannot use these words as product identifiers because they are not unique and could cause issues with product configurations.
For instance, if we use the term "White" to identify the product pages and reviews to be linked to a headset X product card, we may end up including reviews about other white headsets that are actually different models than the one we intended to feature on the card. Therefore, avoiding using non-unique words as product identifiers is important to ensure accurate and relevant information is being presented to customers.
To address these challenges and improve the accuracy of our product management system, we have introduced a new field called "product code." Products with unique numerical SKU codes, such as "ECAM 22.110," will now be referenced using this new field. So you will find "ECAM 22.110" both in the SKU and product code fields.
Instead, if a product uses SKUs descriptive words like "red" or "55cm", it is important to add those words to the SKUs field and not the unique identifiers field.
We recommend always using only unique numerical codes when it comes to filling up the product identifiers fields of a product page (like ASINs, UPCs, EANs, and Product codes) for the purpose of accurate identification.
