The Core Difference: Focus vs. Reach
IDEA provides data exchange tools focused primarily on the electrical industry. It’s built for a single segment, with a closed data structure and limited partner network.
DDS, by contrast, was built for scale.
We deliver 12.5+ million SKUs from over 1,700 manufacturers to more than 450 distributors across multiple industries—including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, industrial, safety, welding, tools, and automation.
In short: IDEA focuses on one industry. DDS connects them all.

DDS automates everything:
- Manufacturer data is ingested, standardized, and validated automatically
- AI continuously enriches, categorizes, and detects inconsistencies
- Real-time updates ensure distributors always have the latest information
- Flexible integrations feed any ERP, PIM, or e-commerce platform
That means no more static files, mismatched attributes, or lagging updates—just clean, accurate, manufacturer-approved content that moves as fast as your business.
Real Content vs. Scraped Content
DDS was built for automation, scale, and interoperability.
You get the full advantage of AI enrichment, standardized taxonomies, and a global partner network—without technical or industry constraints.
Access over 12.5 million SKUs instantly—not just one vertical’s catalog
Deliver standardized, enriched product data to any distributor or platform
Integrate seamlessly with your existing systems—no rip-and-replace
Use AI to fill gaps, detect inconsistencies, and continuously improve quality
Enable distributors to go live faster with complete, trusted product content
Meanwhile, IDEA’s limited scope and manual processes make it slower to adopt, more rigid, and less adaptable outside the electrical sector.
For Manufacturers:
- Broader reach across more industries and distributors
- Faster syndication to digital channels
- AI-driven enrichment improves product visibility and accuracy
For Distributors:
- Reliable, always-current content from every connected manufacturer
- Less manual work and reformatting
- Scalable data delivery for ERP + e-commerce platforms
- Consistent attributes, richer product pages, and higher conversion
IDEA serves a specific industry well.
DDS serves the entire distribution ecosystem.
If your goal is to deliver accurate, manufacturer-approved product data across multiple verticals, platforms, and partners—DDS is the scalable, intelligent, and integrated choice.
See how DDS delivers data faster, smarter, and farther than any single-industry platform.
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