What is a Central Source of Truth
A central source of truth, also known as a Single Source of Truth (SSOT), is a single, reliable place where key business data is stored, managed, and kept up to date.
It helps to make sure everyone across teams and systems works from the same accurate information, instead of relying on scattered spreadsheets or disconnected tools.
Examples
| Example | What It’s Used For |
|---|---|
| PIM (Product Information Management) | Managing and updating product data across teams and channels |
| ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) | Centralizing core business data like inventory, finance, and orders |
| DAM (Digital Asset Management) | Storing and managing product images, videos, and brand assets |
Good to know
A central source of truth isn’t just helpful for large teams. Even small teams can benefit from having one place to manage product data. It keeps everyone on the same page, reduces back-and-forth, and helps avoid errors when things change.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if we have a central source of truth?
A few signs can help you tell:Your team knows exactly where to find the most up-to-date information, whether it’s product data, brand assets, pricing, or channel-specific details.There’s no confusion about which version of a file or dataset is the correct one.Updates happen in one place and flow consistently across other tools and teams.If people are still checking old folders, emailing for “the latest version,” or making decisions based on different data, you're probably missing a true source of truth.
Does a central source of truth have to be one single platform?
Not always. What matters more is that there’s a clear system in place, whether through a PIM, DAM, shared database, or combination, that ensures consistency. The goal is for everyone to be working from the same accurate information, no matter the tool.
What types of information should be part of a central source of truth?
That depends on your business, but common examples include product data, digital assets, pricing, compliance info, channel-specific content, and internal documentation. If multiple people or systems rely on it, it’s worth centralizing.