PLM as a cornerstone for digital transformation

Mastering the connections between roles, processes, data and tools

**Digital transformation affects all areas of a company and can take on very different facets. But what role does product data play in this? And how can it be used sensibly in PLM to make companies more competitive?

PLM is and remains a decisive factor in the digital transformation of companies. This is because PLM ensures that product data reaches the customer or internal user as consistently and automatically as possible and that they receive exactly the information they need. In order to set the right digital course, implement the optimal solutions and technologies in a targeted manner and strengthen a company's competitiveness in the long term, it is crucial to ask the right questions right from the start.

The penetration of PLM in the organization

Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) is continuously penetrating companies. Starting from its original user group, product development, other user groups along the value chain are becoming involved. We distinguish between three basic stages, which are characterized by their focus on different user groups.

1. PDM-centered: Focus on product development
The focus here is on product data during development. It analyzes how a product is mapped, which data objects are used and how they are released.

2. enterprise PLM: data continuity throughout the entire company
This level enables consistent data usage and process optimization across different departments. This is relevant in change management, for example: Technical changes are implemented throughout the entire company, which requires smooth cross-departmental processes.

3. beyond enterprise PLM: beyond company boundaries
At this level, different companies in the organization or external partners and customers are also included. The focus here is, for example, on how product data supports the sales process and how this can be digitalized with suitable solutions in order to meet the specific requirements of customers.

Important questions for successful PLM:

• What does the customer gain? At the beginning there is the customer and therefore very often a certain uncertainty factor. Will the customer accept the solution? What does the company have to offer the customer so that the solution also provides clear added value for them? To answer these questions, it is essential to take an in-depth look at the customer - as a person and as an entire industry - as well as their needs and circumstances.
• What added value should the product data offer? The quality of the product data is key. Companies need to consider what added value they want to achieve with their existing data and how (and with what effort) they prepare it specifically for this purpose.
• Which solution is the best? Product data is often linked to various tools that cover specific areas of the company. However, these tools are not sufficient for cross-departmental processes. Intelliact has developed a methodology that analyzes requirements independently of existing tools. First, the processes and needs of the users are defined. Suitable tools are then selected that fulfill the business requirements as far as possible as standard. If necessary, larger systems can be supplemented with smaller new modules. As a general rule, the best solution always depends on the specific objectives. Purely technical framework conditions are rarely the decisive factor when evaluating a solution.

Conclusion: PLM as the key to digital transformation

As a central component of digital transformation, PLM ensures that product data reaches the customer in a consistent and automated manner, thus creating real added value. This does not necessarily require the development of new solutions. It is often sufficient to intelligently combine proven and new elements in order to optimally meet specific requirements. In any case, it is crucial for success that the user's needs are at the center from the outset.

PLM Open Hour

PLM as a cornerstone for digital transformation

In this Open Hour, we have shown you how Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) can help you answer the critical questions and make the right decisions for your company. Questions about:

• Identifying the impact of digitalization on your processes and optimization potential - how to create transparency?
• Prioritize appropriate technologies and resources for maximum efficiency and profitability - how to make informed decisions?
• Creating a solid foundation for continuous innovation and growth - how to shape the future?

Click through the presentation here (in German):

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