Furniture Industry Data Exchange (FIDX) Adopts Product Catalog Standards

Furniture World Magazine

The Executive Committee of the Furniture Industry Data Exchange organization (FIDX) has adopted the proposed XML Product Catalog standards which were supported by a working group of information technology professionals from retail, manufacturing, and software companies led by Ron Martel of Micro*D. The standards are based on schemas developed by the GCI (Global Commerce Initiative) organization, which is sponsored, by 40 of the top international retailers for consumer products. The Product Catalog standards adopted by FIDX will support custom product configurations, which are essential for upholstery products. The XML Product Catalog standards will be presented to the Uniform Code Council and the Global Commerce Initiative for acceptance as a standard for the home furnishings industry. FIDX is a standards developing body comprised of representatives from furniture industry trade organizations. The FIDX Executive Committee members include Jeff Baker of Carl's Furniture, serving as Vice Chairman Retailing; Douglas Brackett, Executive Vice President of the American Furniture Manufacturers Association; Andy Counts, Vice President of the American Furniture Manufacturers Association; Steve DeHaan, Executive Vice President of the National Home Furnishings Association; Talmage Fish, Vice President, Information Systems of Hooker Furniture, serving as Vice Chairman Manufacturing; and Mary Frye, President of the Home Furnishings International Association, serving as Chairperson of FIDX.