Example of using a product configurator for solar systems
Does your product range include complex, customizable items made up of multiple components? Do you want to give your customers the option to assemble these items according to their own preferences? If so, you should consider purchasing a variant configurator. It allows customers to put together their own products. This makes the purchasing process much more engaging and memorable for the buyer. Furthermore, their needs and requirements are perfectly met, as they receive personalized products. The demand for customized products is constantly growing, making the use of this software advantageous.
In an online store equipped with a product configurator, anyone can make purchases, even without technical knowledge. The software offers the appropriate components to choose from, ensuring that all configured products function properly. This leads to fewer returns, increased sales, and improved customer satisfaction.
The software can be used to sell a variety of products (medical technology, electrical engineering, automobiles). Here is an example of a product configurator to help you better understand how it works. We’ll describe the process of putting together a solar power system. However, all models are different and are configured individually, as they may include components from different brands or have varying performance specifications. Our solution helps configure all products to meet individual customer needs.
What is a product configurator, and why is it important?
The solution we have developed is a digital software application for the knowledge-based manufacturing of customized products from predefined, compatible components. The tool serves as a link between the buyer and the sales team. It enables the selection and combination of modules based on their properties and compatibility rules.
Our software is AI-driven, which allows for the assembly of items according to individual preferences. Compatibility is checked based on characteristics, using knowledge and rules.
Using a solar power system as an example, we demonstrate how configuration is performed using our website product configurator. To assemble a product correctly, one must first select its components. If the buyer does not understand which components the product must consist of, AI can assist them. They describe the purpose for which the system is being built, the size of the area to be powered, and for what purpose and for how long the power supply should operate autonomously. The AI explains which components are necessary. Once the address field is filled in, the AI also calculates the amount of electricity needed during different seasons, taking the location into account. You must consider the power calculation. Based on this information, the configurator suggests specific components for selection.
Product filters and smart combinations
The product range includes a selection of essential components with prices (solar panels, charge controllers, cables). The online product configurator also offers additional items. Once the customer has defined their specific requirements, they can begin putting together their system. To avoid having to search through the entire product range, they can use filters. Kenner Soft can customize the filters for each store according to the client’s needs. For example, we have sorted the solar systems by label, wattage, cell type, etc. This makes selection easier. The customer can start by trying cheaper modules or components from a single brand.
The product configurator software displays the compatible components. They are marked in black. Components marked in red cannot be added. The tool also shows the reason why that item is incompatible.
Product detail page and technical information
During configuration, the customer sees only a brief description of the component. When they click on it, the product card opens, displaying a photo of the component and its detailed specifications. For each store, depending on its product range, additional product information can be stored in the PIM system and will then be displayed on the product card. In our example, we’ve added an installation diagram for a solar panel. Below that, there are compatible components, allowing the buyer to select them. There’s also the option to view ready-made configurations using the same component from other customers. This saves time, as you don’t have to configure everything from scratch.
Setup Complete
The buyer double-checks the configuration of the product they need and verifies that the price is correct. At the top, they can see all the selected components. On the right is a shopping cart containing the added modules. If the price is acceptable and they don’t want to make any changes, they can save the final configuration, print the datasheet, or copy the link and send it to someone via email. The software features a configuration control panel that simplifies the entire process. Here, users can also start with a new configuration. This makes the interface easy to use and intuitive for everyone.
Benefits of an E-Commerce Configurator
The software has a positive impact on sales by automating many processes and increasing revenue. Anyone who creates a product configurator benefits in the following ways:
- You can put together complex products without professional help.
- Thanks to AI, the solution can handle the process on its own, reducing the workload on staff.
- The software checks compatibility to ensure the configured item works properly. There is no risk of receiving a defective product.
- The buyer sees the price immediately because it is calculated in real time.
- If the final price is too high for the customer, they can replace the expensive components with cheaper ones.
- You can save the configuration or send it as a link via email, discuss it with a specialist later, and continue at any time.
- The configurator already includes KennerPIM, which enables product management. It is also suitable for shops that have integrated a different PIM system. There are no conflicts when connecting the two systems.
The online store with a product configurator delivers an excellent customer experience by allowing customers to visualize personalized items in real time.