PLM Software: The Best Solutions for Product Lifecycle Management

With the rapid development of the Cloud, the deployment of Industry 4.0, and the emergence of new technologies like the digital twin, the PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) solutions market is currently experiencing strong growth. Valued at $21.71 billion globally in 2020, the PLM market is projected to reach $32.42 billion USD by 2026, registering a growth of 6.92%. Discover all the information to seize this opportunity.

What is PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) and how is it used?

A brief history of PLM and product lifecycle management 

The first Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions emerged in the 1980s in response to the increasing complexity of product management for businesses. Various factors such as market globalization, the growing complexity of the supply chain, product range diversification, and increased competition necessitated a more integrated approach. Furthermore, PLM helped break down information systems that were operating in silos, consisting of multiple applications for each department, such as R&D, marketing, production, maintenance, and so on. Over time, PLM systems evolved to become increasingly sophisticated, integrating features such as data analysis, process improvement and monitoring, and real-time collaboration. They enable the management of a product's entire lifecycle, from its initial design to its market withdrawal. 

Why use a PLM solution?

A PLM solution offers numerous benefits. 

First, it enables the centralization of all product-related data throughout their lifecycle. This includes, for example, specifications, plans, 3D models, costs, deadlines, regulations, suppliers, modifications, and versions. Centralizing this data fosters collaboration between teams, facilitates the sharing of key information, and prevents loss, dispersion, or duplication. Second, PLM platforms help break down silos between design, production, market launch, and support processes. This real-time, global availability of information enhances transparency and decision-making. The "silo effect" is avoided, leading to greater agility and a deeper understanding of customers and products. Employees are empowered by gaining a comprehensive yet concise and clear overview. Furthermore, a PLM solution allows for the automation of certain business processes, particularly those related to product development and management. For instance, it's possible to automate workflows, approvals, notifications, and recurring tasks to improve everyone's efficiency and productivity. Manual processes and the risk of human errors are reduced. Finally, a PLM solution also provides complete traceability. Managers can track every step, from initial design to market withdrawal. It also allows for the identification of existing elements that can be reused in future projects.

How does PLM work? 

The process of using a PLM solution is generally divided into three stages: manage, collaborate, and oversee.

The first stage is the management of all product-related data throughout its lifecycle. As we've seen, this includes the creation and management of specifications, technical documents, 3D/2D models, costs, deadlines, regulations, etc. The PLM solution organizes this data in a structured way and makes it accessible to all stakeholders. The second stage is collaboration, which involves sharing and exchanging information between internal teams and external stakeholders. The solution facilitates collaboration by enabling different teams (design, engineering, production, marketing, etc.) to work transparently and in a coordinated manner. The third stage is oversight, which encompasses the supervision and control of the product development and management process through monitoring, reporting, and analysis features. These features allow for tracking key performance indicators, monitoring project progress, managing changes, assessing risks, and optimizing the product's overall performance.

How to choose the right PLM tool

The benefits and features of Cloud and On-Premise

Companies have a choice between two options for hosting their product lifecycle management solution: Cloud and On-Premise.

Cloud offers several advantages, such as remote accessibility, flexibility, scalability, and ease of implementation. Cloud-based solutions allow companies to access PLM functionalities via the internet, without requiring costly internal infrastructure. Furthermore, software updates are managed by the provider, which automatically provides the latest features and improvements. On the other hand, On-Premise refers to installing the PLM tool directly on the company's internal servers. This approach offers total control over the infrastructure and data, as well as more extensive customization of the tool based on the company's specific needs. However, On-Premise requires internal resources for software management and maintenance, as well as higher initial investments.

How to make your choice?

To choose between the two solutions, you can evaluate several criteria. The most important factor is the criticality level of the data you will entrust to your PLM solution. If this data is subject to specific regulations or requires a high level of confidentiality, then an On-Premise solution might be preferable. If you have limited internal resources, it may be wise to opt for a Cloud solution, which will be easy to deploy for your teams and require little maintenance, even during updates.

PLM Software: Solutions for Every Challenge

1. 3DX by Dassault Systèmes

Dassault has been a pioneer in developing PLM solutions. The 3DEXPERIENCE platform is naturally designed for industrial sectors, particularly aerospace, defense, and automotive. It enables the lifecycle management of complex products involving hundreds or thousands of people. Among 3DX's features are real-time collaboration, data management, simulation, analysis, planning, and product traceability. 

Key strength : a robust and flexible architecture.

Key weakness : its cost, which can reach several hundred euros per month per user.

Who is it for? Ambitious projects looking to embrace Industry 4.0.

References : L’Occitane en Provence, Altaïr, Bouygues Construction…

2. Windchill by PTC (Parametric Technology Corporation) 

Windchill specializes in content and production workflow management. This solution offers advanced features such as data and change management, real-time collaboration, traceability, and 2D and 3D product visualization, as it is currently widely used in the Retail sector. Windchill enables teams to work synchronously and optimize development processes.

Key strength : a platform natively designed for global operation.

Key weakness : compatibility with other APIs.

Who is it for? Primarily, retailers operating in different countries. It's a global platform that can also be perfectly suited for other activities.

References : Boses, Vaillant Group, Stanley Black & Decker, Victoria’S Secret…

3. Siemens PLM's Teamcenter

Teamcenter, developed by Siemens, is a comprehensive PLM solution, ideal for managing data and processes for IT companies. Notably, it's versatile enough to be used beyond this sector. Intuitive, it enables real-time product data management, collaboration, planning, and more, anywhere in the world. Its visualization system makes it a powerful decision-making tool for management and executives.

Key strength : its compatibility and integration with other APIs, and its availability on various operating systems. 

Key weakness : a 100% cloud-based design, which can be an advantage but also has some drawbacks for certain companies.

Who is it for? IT companies and, more broadly, those in the service sector.

References : Emerson Climate Technologies Incorporated, Credence Management Solutions, Softpath System…

4. Aras

Aras is a market leader in PLM solutions, as evidenced by its list of references. Its low-code platform stands out for its high flexibility and integration capabilities with third-party applications. It can be adapted to the specific processes and challenges of each company and department. This highly customizable solution is supported by a community and forums.

Key strength : its rapid deployment within teams.

Key weakness : strong in-house technical skills are essential to fully leverage the platform's potential.

Who is it for? Aras primarily targets companies in the industrial sector. It notably offers a digital twin solution.

References: Airbus, General Motors, Carlisle, Microsoft, Motorola…

5. Centric PLM

Finally, Centric PLM is a platform specifically designed for the retail sector. It offers advanced features accessible, for example, to designers or developers who can manage products by collection. It also allows for the visualization of product data, suppliers, and sourcing, which enables real-time cost tracking, particularly suited to the current period.

Key strength : its specialization in the retail sector and the introduction of predictive AI.

Key weakness : third-party application integration.

Who is it for? Primarily retailers with international expansion. 

References : Kering, Carhatt, Louis Vuitton, Asics…

6. Visiativ PLM

Visiativ PLM is a Product Lifecycle Management solution specifically designed for industrial SMEs and mid-market companies. It stands out for its sectoral approach and integration with business software, thereby facilitating the digital transformation of companies. The solution offers essential features such as product data management, team collaboration, process automation, and integration with ERP tools. Visiativ PLM also offers extensive customization to adapt to the specific needs of each company, while maintaining an intuitive user experience.

Key strength : an accessible and flexible solution, designed for SMEs and mid-market companies.

Key weakness : more limited functional coverage than solutions designed for large corporations.

Who is it for? Industrial SMEs and ISEs seeking a powerful and adaptable tool to structure their product lifecycle management.

References : Maped, Weleda, SIMP, Radiall, Clayens…

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Comparison of PLM Solutions

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