ECLASS Release 16.0

ECLASS 16.0 – the next step for clean master data

ECLASS 16.0 is the latest version of the international classification standard. The data model remains stable, so your existing integrations can continue to run – while at the same time, the scope of content has grown significantly. For companies that see master data as a strategic success factor, this release is an important lever for driving quality, comparability, and automation forward.

What´s new in ECLASS 16.0?

ECLASS 16.0 brings noticeable improvements, especially in technical areas:

• Numerous new classes, characteristics, and values have been added so that products and components can be described in greater detail, more clearly, and in a more practical manner.
• This particularly affects machine elements, eletrical and automation technology, machines and apparatus, furniture, and fluid technology, among other areas.
• Design, purchasing, maintenance, and engineering benefit from clearer structures and improved reuseability of article data.

One focus is on material declarations and sustainability

• The material declaration aspect has been expanded to transparently map critical ingredients and relevant substances in the master data.
• Companies can better anchor regulatory requirements (e.g., digital product passport, reporting obligations, sustainability indicators) in their data models.

In addition, ECLASS is increasingly relying on artificial intelligence:

• Many class definitions were created using modern AI models and then reviewed by subject matter experts.
• This results in understandable, consistent definitions without losing technical depth.
• This makes the standard more accessible and easier to explain for users in purchasing, technology, or master data management.

Formats: Basic, Advanced and Asset

ECLASS 16.0 is available in different versions, depending on how deeply you want to integrate the standard into your system landscape:

• Basic
  For a lean, ERP-oriented product description with focused features. Ideal when the main focus is on comparable material master data and simple integrations.
• Advanced
  The complete, detailed data model with all structural elements. Suitable for complex MDM, PIM and integration scenarios, as well as for companies that want to use ECLASS as a central data hub.
• Asset
  For using ECLASS in the administration shell (AAS) and in the context of digital twins and digital product passports. The ideal basis for providing standardized product and asset data in digital ecosystems.

If you would like to know which ECLASS format (Basic, Advanced or Asset) suits your system landscape and your goals, please contact us.

Contact us now!

Why ECLASS 16.0 is relevant for you

With Release 16.0, ECLASS becomes even more useful as a basis for:

• Consistent material and article master data across plants, countries and systems
• More efficient processes in purchasing, logistics, maintenance and engineering
• A robust foundation for sustainability, compliance and digital twins

Companies that already use ECLASS can further refine existing structures with 16.0. Newcomers benefit from a mature, internationally established standard that is constantly being further developed.

Would you like to switch to ECLASS 16.0, integrate new content into your data model or link ECLASS more closely with ERP, PIM or AAS?

• We will work with you to analyze your current master data landscape
• We will support you with data cleansing, mapping and structure development based on ECLASS 16.0
• We accompany the technical integration into your systems: from the initial pilot phase to the rollout.

Contact us if you would like to know how you can specifically use ECLASS 16.0 in your company.

Together, we will develop a practical roadmap that will enable you to fully exploit the potential of the new release.

Contact us now!