Conn. Historically, it was used to manage engineering processes. Now it s being used to manage the product lifecycle across the value chain. There are several drivers behind the evolution of PDM, Miller relates. PDM investments are being driven by increasing globalization of companies and the growing need for better communication, faster product innovation, closer ties to customers, effective supply-chain management, and compliance with increasingly strict regulations, he maintains. But globalization is the primary driver, Miller adds.
Most large manufacturers work globally rather than locally.
The driver is getting products to market quicker, seconds Centric Software s Watson. Ivey explains that it is no longer sufficient for manufacturers to merely bring a product to market within a specified period of time. Rather, the product must generate an immediate return on investment. The focus of PDM has shifted to developing products rather than engineering them, says Ivey, who adds that PDM systems can help companies understand what they will build and what needs it will serve. Miller explains that as its business value gains recognition, PDM is gaining support from the executive level.