Managing complexity correctly

PlentyOne is one of the most powerful systems in multichannel commerce. But the complexity of the platform requires a well-thought-out setup. In many companies, the focus is initially on operational speed: bring listings live quickly, generate initial sales.

However, what works in the beginning often becomes a structural risk as it progresses — especially when standards are missing and processes are not properly mapped.

Five recurring configuration errors impair efficiency in many PlentyOne systems — and cause measurable additional operational costs.

1. Unstructured master data: No overview, no control

A lack of data standards and duplicate article master records mean that it is no longer clear, even internally, which products are currently active.

Such data chaos not only makes reporting difficult — it entails operational risks including incorrect display on marketplaces.

2. Role system without security logic: Everyone has admin rights

Most PlentyOne systems lack a differentiated role concept — all users often have unrestricted administrator rights.

What appears to be a pragmatic solution in the initial phase becomes a risk factor as system complexity increases: Control, traceability and responsibilities remain unclear.

Structured role and rights management is therefore essential — both for data security and for meeting compliance requirements.

3. OSS procedure not activated: Tax risks associated with EU sales

In cross-border e-commerce, it is essential to correctly represent the one-stop shop process (OSS).

If the appropriate configuration is missing in PlentyOne, incorrect VAT rates are often calculated for EU deliveries.

4. Incorrect pan-EU configuration: origin of shipment not recognizable

When using pan-EU fulfillment by Amazon, correct warehouse allocation is essential.

If this assignment is missing in PlentyOne or if it is incorrectly configured, the shipping origin cannot be clearly determined — which leads to incorrect invoices and tax inconsistency.

5. Untapped potential: There is no automation

Despite PlentyOne's wide range of functions, automation is only insufficiently used in many systems.

Product activations are carried out manually, process chains are fragmented, and central control mechanisms remain unused. The result: operational resources are tied up, efficiency potential is not exhausted and scaling options are unnecessarily limited.

Conclusion: Systematic set-up instead of operational improvisation

PlentyOne cannot be taken for granted. Only a structured system configuration, high data quality and the targeted use of existing functions create the basis for a scalable multichannel infrastructure.

Misconfigurations are not trivial — they have a direct impact on efficiency, safety and cost structure. Anyone who improvises operationally risks structural inefficiency and avoidable financial burdens.

‍