Product declination¶
A product variation is a variation of the same item based on certain attributes, such as size, color, or any other characteristic that influences its appearance or price.
Declinations are only useful when there is an obvious difference between each variation that justifies their separate management in a product sheet.
When to use declensions?¶
The use of variations is only relevant if each variation presents visible and significant differences for the user, such as: - A change of color or design (example: a T-shirt available in red, blue and black). - A size change with an impact on the order (example: from S to XL for a garment). - A price that varies according to the variation (example: a leather shoe costs more than a fabric version). - A different photo illustrating the variation (example: a sofa available in several colors, each color having its own image).
If the differences between the variants are minimal (e.g. a non-visible internal change such as fabric composition with no impact on price or appearance), it’s best not to create a declination to avoid complicating the user experience.
Example: Declination of a T-shirt¶
Let’s take the example of a basic T-shirt available in different sizes and colors. Since color visually modifies the product and size influences fit, each variation is relevant.
Product features : - Available colors: Red, Blue, Black - Available sizes: S, M, L, XL - Price varies by size: S to L = 20€, XL = 22€
List of possible variations :
Reference |
Size |
Color |
Price |
|---|---|---|---|
TSH-RED-S |
S |
Red |
20€ |
TSH-RED-M |
M |
Red |
20€ |
TSH-RED-L |
L |
Red |
20€ |
TSH-RED-XL |
XL |
Red |
22€ |
TSH-BLUE-S |
S |
Blue |
20€ |
TSH-BLUE-M |
M |
Blue |
20€ |
TSH-BLUE-L |
L |
Blue |
20€ |
TSH-BLUE-XL |
XL |
Blue |
22€ |
TSH-BLACK-S |
S |
Black |
20€ |
TSH-BLACK-M |
M |
Black |
20€ |
TSH-BLACK-L |
L |
Black |
20€ |
TSH-BLACK-XL |
XL |
Black |
22€ |
In this example: - Each color is accompanied by a corresponding photo. - Size XL has a higher price, justifying its management as a declination.
When to avoid declensions?¶
If the difference is neither visible nor significant (e.g. a slight variation in fabric with no effect on price or appearance).
If this risks making navigation confusing for the user.
If the number of variations becomes too great, it’s better to use characteristics rather than variations.
Conclusion¶
Product variations are essential in an e-commerce catalog when they offer real added value in terms of visibility, user choice and inventory management. They should only be used if they provide a clear and relevant distinction between each variation, particularly in terms of price, photos or visible characteristics.