The digital transformation has fundamentally changed the business landscape, and product lifecycle management (PLM) plays a central role in this. It enables companies to manage the entire lifecycle of their products - from idea to disposal. Given the growing complexity of the business environment, it is crucial to integrate PLM seamlessly into operational processes.

Best-in-class approach

The prerequisite for the best-in-class approach is that the optimal system is used for the respective domains instead of a central monolithic system. The seamless integration of these individual systems is also crucial. Among other things, they integrate functions for design, collaboration and production and help companies to drive innovation and shorten time-to-market.

The integration of PLM into existing IT systems requires careful planning. Challenges often lie in connecting with other systems such as ERP, CRM and SCM. Best-in-class PLM systems offer APIs and integration frameworks to synchronize data and processes and improve collaboration.

Effective integration strategies

Effective integration strategies require a thorough analysis of existing systems and data flows. Ensuring data integrity and consistency is crucial, as is the scalability and future viability of PLM solutions.

Companies rely on middleware platforms and cloud-based solutions to facilitate integrations. Standards such as PLM-XML and STEP play an important role in the interoperability between PLM systems and other applications.

The acceptance and use of PLM systems by users are crucial to the success of the digital transformation. Training and transparent integration into workflows are essential. Cross-system and role-based user interfaces simplify access to information and functionalities in relation to the work to be performed by the user. This allows cross-system business processes to be mapped and implemented across system boundaries.

PLM as a driver of innovation

The future of PLM lies in supporting innovation and collaboration along the value chain. Companies will pay more attention to sustainability and the circular economy, and PLM systems will help to optimize complex processes and achieve sustainability goals.

Overall, companies are facing exciting and challenging times with regard to digital transformation in the PLM sector. Through innovation, collaboration and a holistic view of the product lifecycle, they will be able to seize the opportunities of the digital future.