Many companies manage parts, multi-level bill of materials (BOMs), approved vendor and manufacturer lists (AVL/AML), documents, and engineering changes in several systems using distinct processes. This makes it difficult to keep the data in sync across systems. Users of the information often need to go to different applications to find the data they need.
Read MoreFor the last couple of decades, technologies in the product lifecycle space have been point- solutions oriented. Think configurators, CAD systems, PDM, document management like SharePoint, FEA, ERP, etc. In reality, these point solutions have simply reinforced existing information silos that make the “digital twin” concept a fantasyland.
Read MoreWe recently prototyped a components/parts catalog solution by leveraging the power of Aras Innovator. The prototype empowers users to search, provides new part request options, support linking documents such as MSDS’s, dynamically links to ERP data, and integrates with IHS’ parts catalog solution. And it was done in matter of days and with software that doesn’t cost a cent!
Read MorePeter Schroer, the Aras CEO and Founder, recently penned a compelling article that contrasts the irony that exists for many manufacturers today. He notes that sophisticated design technologies are used for 3D CAD, analysis and simulation, and DMU (digital mock-up) work. Yet, to manage the resulting data, manual steps, paper, email, Excel, Lotus Notes, DropBox, FTP, and homegrown systems are used.He refers to these design technologies as the "science of engineering." He further states, "Leaving other critical processes, including software, electronics, requirements, process planning, technical publications and quality – the "business of engineering" – is disconnected and underserved." It's the contrast between the "science of engineering and the "business of engineering."
Read MoreBy Ben Desmarais, vdR Group Senior Implementation Manager
I’ve been doing PLM solutions for nearly two decades now. Crafting workflow solutions are essential for most any implementation effort. I was recently involved in designing and configuring workflow processes for a project, and a couple of things occurred that prompted me to want to share some thoughts.
First, lifecycle stages go hand-in-hand with workflows. Think of workflows as moving a collection of items through a process. As an item moves through the process, it is likely to change states. For example, if an item is being changed, then once a change process is activated for that item, the lifecycle state might be assigned to “work-in-process” or WIP...
Read MoreMartin: Before we start, give us a quick background of your experience and what you are responsible for today.
Lopa: I’m a mechanical engineer by education, and I have been in PLM and the enterprise software space for my whole career. I started in services with SDRC Metaphase and then moved to Aspect Development/i2 in their supplier relationship management area. I gained great experience in both services and presales working with utility companies, high-tech, apparel, retail, industrial and the auto industry. Prior to joining Aras, I spent a number of years at Siemens PLM working with Teamcenter.
Read MorePersonally, one of my go-to content sources is TED talks. In particular, I have enjoyed Simon Sinek. He’s an author best known for popularizing the concept of "the golden circle" and to "Start with Why.” In one of his talks, Sinek encourages us to understand “why” we pursue an idea, and then dig into the “how” and “what” later. By doing so, the result is a vision and energy that transcends the morass of tactical details. A prime example … Steve Jobs is the iconic “why guy.”
Read MoreAutodesk Vault was used for the CAD workgroup. Once designs were released, renditions were manually created and then loaded into SharePoint. The bills we exported to a spreadsheet and manually entered into their ERP solution. Purchasing would go to SharePoint to access and print the rendered drawings. These would be associated to purchase orders.
Read MoreDo you have P&L responsibilities or hope to have someday? Then if PLM is not part of your strategy, you may want to reconsider. PLM is just as vital as your ERP solution and some will argue that it is the most important aspect for any engineering/manufacturing business.
Read MoreThe term “PLM” is not as common as other terms in an IT organization. I would imagine that common threads of discussions touch on technologies such as SaaS/cloud based solutions, SAN/NANs storage, voice-over-IP, etc. Some of the terms related to specific applications most likely include CAD, ERP, ECM (Enterprise Content Management) and CRM. My own anecdotal experience with various customers suggests that PLM is still not common vernacular.
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