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Overview

In this module, we manage product relations in SQARP.
Product relations is a collective term for the two relation types available in the Basic Template:

  • Accessories
  • Spare parts

Context of the Entire Process​

This module is where compatibility relationships are created between different products.
These relationships are for accessories and spare parts — items purchased alongside another product.

This module does not handle related or alternative product suggestions such as "You may also be interested in this" or "See also this product".

Main objectives:

  • Create all relevant relationships and import them into SQARP so related items are displayed alongside other items.
  • Help customers understand how the assortment is connected.
  • Provide guidance for a smooth purchase experience.
  • Ensure no important relationships are missed.
  • Support order and logistics flows effectively.

What Data Is Included in This Module?​

A product relation is a link between:

  • A main product
  • A related product

Important: Both products must already exist in SQARP from earlier modules, or be present in the SQARP data template you are currently working on.

Why Is This Module Important?​

1. Helps Customers Understand the Assortment Structure​

  • Especially valuable for complex or technical product ranges where multiple item numbers are needed for a complete product.
  • Guides the customer through the purchase journey.

2. Increases the Likelihood of a Satisfied Customer​

  • Displays relevant relationships with the main product to reduce the risk of missing important add-ons.
  • Inspires customers to complete their purchase.
  • Ensures customers get the full experience of the product.

3. Boost Average Order Value​

  • Relevant compatibility relationships can convert up to 50% on main product purchases.
  • Improves profitability by spreading shipping costs across more items.
  • The digital equivalent of an in-store display.

Examples:

  • Fried onions with hot dog buns.
  • Mounting bracket with TVs.

4. Minimize Clicks Needed to Build a Complete Cart​

  • Without defined relationships, customers must manually navigate categories or search — often 8–12 extra clicks.
  • This reduces purchase likelihood and increases uncertainty about compatibility.

Tips & Tricks / Best Practice​

SQARP GOLD STANDARD
  • Build relationships in one direction — from the main product to the related product.
  • Avoid building relationships in both directions.
  • Include a few generic accessories that make sense, but don’t overload — five is a good rule of thumb.

Q&A​

Q1: What are product relations in SQARP?

Links between a main product and a related product (accessory or spare part) to guide customers in completing purchases or finding replacements.

Q2: What’s the difference between an accessory and a spare part?
  • Accessory: Complementary standalone item bought with the main product (e.g., TV mounting bracket).
  • Spare part: Replacement component for an existing product (e.g., bicycle chain).
Q3: Why are product relations important?
  • Improve customer guidance.
  • Reduce missed add-ons.
  • Increase purchase satisfaction and conversion rates.
  • Can raise average order value by up to 50%.
Q4: What is SQARP’s best practice for creating product relations?
  • Build relationships one way — from main product to related product.
  • Limit generic accessories to around five.

Example:

  • Electric Drill → Spare Battery
  • Electric Drill → Carrying Case
  • Electric Drill → Drill Bit Set
Q5: What happens if related products aren’t defined?

Customers must search manually, which typically takes 8–12 extra clicks, reducing purchase likelihood and increasing uncertainty about compatibility.