Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software plays a crucial role in discreet manufacturing companies, enabling efficient product development, collaboration, and data management. However, with the constant evolution of technology, discreet manufacturers often face the challenge of selecting the right next-generation PLM software solution. Adopting a pragmatic approach to assessment and selection can ensure a successful implementation. Let’s explore some key considerations for discreet manufacturers in this process.

1. Define Your Objectives: Start by clearly defining your objectives and identifying the specific pain points or challenges you want to address with the next-generation PLM software. Whether it’s streamlining collaboration, improving data management, or enhancing product development processes, having a clear understanding of your goals will help you evaluate potential solutions more effectively.
2. Conduct a Thorough Needs Assessment: Perform a comprehensive needs assessment to identify the specific functionalities and features required in a next-generation PLM solution. Consider factors such as data integration capabilities, collaboration tools, workflow management, document control, and analytics. Engage key stakeholders from different departments to ensure their needs and requirements are considered.
3. Evaluate Vendor Capabilities: Once you have a clear understanding of your requirements, evaluate the capabilities of potential PLM software vendors. Look for vendors with a proven track record in discreet manufacturing, as they will have a better understanding of your industry-specific needs. Assess their expertise, technological capabilities, customer support, and implementation services. Request demos and case studies to get a better sense of how their solutions align with your requirements.
4. Consider Scalability and Integration: Next-generation PLM software should be scalable and adaptable to accommodate your company’s growth and evolving needs. Assess the solution’s scalability and integration capabilities with other systems, such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM). Seamless integration between PLM and other systems ensures efficient data exchange and enhances cross-functional collaboration.
5. Evaluate User Experience and Adoption: User experience is a crucial factor in the successful adoption of any software solution. Evaluate the user interface, ease of navigation, and overall user experience of potential PLM solutions. Consider the training and support provided by vendors to ensure a smooth transition and high user adoption rates. User feedback and references from existing customers can provide valuable insights into the usability and effectiveness of the solution.
6. Assess Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Consider the total cost of ownership over the solution’s lifecycle, including licensing fees, implementation costs, maintenance, and support. Evaluate the ROI potential and the long-term value the solution can bring to your organization. Consider not only the initial investment but also the ongoing costs and potential savings or revenue generation opportunities.

By adopting a pragmatic approach to the assessment and selection of next-generation PLM software, discreet manufacturers can make informed decisions that align with their specific needs and objectives. Careful evaluation of vendor capabilities, user experience, scalability, integration, and total cost of ownership ensures the implementation of a robust PLM solution that drives efficiency, collaboration, and innovation within the organization.

Author – Richard Hinojos, CEO PointPLM, Inc.

Richard Hinojos is a founding partner and CEO of PointPLM, Inc., a global Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), Innovation Management (IM) and Cloud consultancy focused on enabling great customer outcomes on their Digital Transformation Journeys.