Search or find? The importance of categorizing in DAM

Today, everything is about efficiency, and of course that includes your Digital Asset Management (DAM) system. You want to find the right assets at lightning speed, without hassle. That's where the importance of categorizing comes in. In this blog, Sebastiaan de Ruiter explains why categorizing is a real game changer.

The pitfalls of old-fashioned directory structures

Folder structures were once the standard when it came to organizing digital files. So were early versions of Digital Asset Management systems. With today's complex digital landscapes, those folder structures simply no longer suffice. It's a bit like standing in front of a crammed closet in which you can no longer find anything. Somewhere in that chaos lies exactly those pants or that dress you need, but where! Chances are you have to empty the whole closet to find what you're looking for. Hassle in other words.

The power of smart categorization

Really good categorization within a DAM system goes far beyond creating so-called folders with subfolders. It's about setting up a metadata structure that works intuitively and seamlessly with how the people on your team think and how they look for things. We're talking about things like tags, metadata and smart filters. This is how you transform your folder structures from a digital junk loft into an organized treasure trove.

Four benefits of good categorization in DAM

1. Time savings

No more frustrating searching! With thoughtful categorization, users find assets in no time. This saves valuable time and increases efficiency.

 2. Increased creativity

When employees can find the right assets effortlessly, creative processes come easier. No more struggling through clumsy folder structures, just get straight to work on the relevant content.

3. Consistent brand experience

By properly categorizing assets, you always use the right material for your brand, ensuring consistency in your communications. Confusion over the correct aspect ratio, the most recent slogan or version perils is a thing of the past.

4. Increase reach

By linking assets to relevant tags and metadata, they become findable by a wider audience. This way you increase the reach of your content and optimize ROI.

Categorizing as a basis for success

Categorizing in DAM is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. Categorizing your digital assets correctly makes your DAM system a user-friendly resource, rather than a frustrating maze. With the right taxonomy and smart filters, your users will find the assets they need, when they need them. And that leads to fluid workflows, increased creativity and a better brand experience.

Tips for effective categorization

• Start with a clear structure: Identify the core and subthemes relevant to your organization.

• Make it user-friendly: Use understandable language and be consistent in your designations.

• Make full use of metadata: Add useful tags, descriptions and rights information to your assets.

• Stay flexible: Adjust your categorization structure based on feedback and new insights.

• Invest in training: Make sure your team knows how to use the DAM system effectively.

• Get out of that folder closet: a folder structure is not a category structure (and vice versa). Who wants to be placed in a subfolder of a subfolder? So start thinking folderless today and give your assets their own metadata instead of putting them in a meaningless folder.

Categorizing in DAM

By embracing the art of categorization and metadata, you unlock the full potential of your DAM system. This is the key to efficiently finding relevant content, fostering creativity and strengthening your digital strategy.

Curious?

Want to learn more about the benefits of Digital Asset Management? Then download our DAM guide. Immediately discover how Comrads can help your brand? Then request a no-obligation demo right away. We like to think along with you. Now and in the future.