Rubens Knowledge Base
How to set up a configurator project successfully:
Key insights for a smooth implementation:
Download our step-by-step PDF or browse this page for valuable insights on a successful setup.
)
Step-by-step webguide:
)
Step 1. Data analysis & concept
Product data
The correct preparation and availability of data is a key success factor for a configurator project.
In order to make a product configurable, various data and information are required for the configurator production:
)
In case you do not have the data in preferred format we support your process and help you digitalize your data.
We offer the following configurator data creation services:
- 3D data optimization & modeling
- Configurator setup (incl. configuration rules & product logics, commercial data creation, ...)
- Texture & material data optimization services & consulting for digitizing textures
)
If your product is stored in the IDM format, you can use our IDM importer and create a first version of a configurator just by uploading your data. All your individual items, their corresponding parameters and of course the connection rules between them will be automatically created. By using our extention files you can adapt and optimize the IDM-based configurator to your needs. The finishing manual touches will then link your 3D data to your IDM logic.
So if you have IDM data, there is also a possibility to import it in a structured way and to quickly onboard your product data.
💡IDM („Integriertes Datenmodell”) is a uniform and standardized data model created by the DCC (“Daten Competence Center e. V.“) that allows smooth exchange of information.
We will be happy to advise you!
Rough definition framework & cost estimation
In order to be able to provide an initial cost estimate for your custom product configurator, the following information needs to be provided:
a) Decide in advance which products you want to make configurable (first).
b) Outline
- Which parts of the product are configurable?
- Which options can be configured?
- Are there special rules and exclusions criteria to consider?
- Ideally you can provide price lists or order part lists of example configurations.
c) Clarify as early as possible all the use cases and channels you want to include.
Configuration paths in the interface and steps for the customer, as well as dedicated functionalities are defined together in the analysis, conception and configurator definition phase in the project.
Data analysis, conception & definition
To make the first steps easier for you, we will gladly support you in the conception and assist you with our experience:
- We analyze the existing data (graphical and commercial) & give you our feedback for optimal results in 3D/AR.
- In a joint appointment we build up a detailed understanding of your product and your goals.
- Joint creation of the configurator concept, which provides information about functions and implementation (including configuration path, configuration parameters and rules, parts list incl. order data). For this, we produce wireframes which have proven very useful to illustrate the configuration path .
- Definition of acceptance criteria in the form of configuration examples and parts lists.
- At the end of the process you will receive a project schedule, concrete service offer & timeline for the implementation of the configurator.
)
Step 2. Realization
Creation of the configurator, (including configuration path, configuration parameters and rules, parts list incl. order data). The following wireframes illustrate the configuration path, which we can produce for you on request.
)
The customer can decide which elements he/she would like to make customizable. In the example above it is possible to personalize the seat design, the frame and to add accessories to the product as well.
In this case the customer can choose for the seat design from 16 different seat options with 5 types of textures and 5 colors.
)
)
For each configurable element that has a unique material layer the setup of an individual 3D model is required.
Take a closer look into how 3D works in the configurator context
)
Configurator setup
The digitization of your products can be realized in the following 3 ways:
- Self-service on customer side based on our documentation, examples & templates as well as onboarding training.
- Roomle Data Service
- Procurement of a data service partner from the Roomle service provider network
If you plan to outsource the data service, we gladly set up an initial cost service framework after analysing your data and the content scope of your products.
)
Step 3. Feedback process
The configurator implementation is accompanied by quality management in form of feedback loops. Within these loops the configurator is tested by us and by the configurator. This is also when we implement changes based on the customer's feedback and further tailor the configurator to the customer's requirements.
During the feedback process we use cutting edge project management tools to make the testing and the communication between all stakeholders as efficient and easy as possible.
Step 4. Go-Live
Exciting times ahead!
After fine tuning and optimization and after approval by the customer, the product can go live in the customer's channels.
Keep your products up to date
It is quite normal that there are updates to a product such as new materials, price changes or changes in configurability. Such change requests can be implemented at any time, even when a product is live.
Important topics on the customer side
The preparation of the data, the conceptual design and the production of the configurator make only one part of a successful configurator project. Configurators only enhance business if they are well integrated into the customer's channels - be it the website, a B2B portal, an app or an already existing webshop.
We highly recommend to address the question of integration into your channels and systems at an early stage of the project. Clarify internally whether an external partner is needed for the realization and include responsible persons into discussions right from the beginning.
)
Consulting & Support:
The Roomle Configurator Specialist team is available to serve as conceptual and technical advisors in the process on a service basis.
We look forward to working with you!
)
Katrin Kirchmayr
Digital Sales Manager
)
Michaela Fraundorfer
Sales Director
Download the Step by step PDF and learn more about implementing a configurator project successfully.