Today we’re going to look at how to choose a Product Data Management system. Getting this right is so important – while the right tool will help you to improve product development processes, the wrong tool can end up becoming a real nightmare for your organisation.
But, with the stakes so high, what is it you need to be looking for when choosing a PDM system? Below, we’ve outlined 4 main areas of consideration to help you get started.
1.What are your requirements for a PDM system?
To ensure that a PDM system is the right match for your company, you need to think about what your requirements are. The value of PDM comes from the ability to control access and share the data related to your products, but if you can’t fully utilise these advantages because you have the wrong tool, then it’s going to limit the benefits to your company. Having a clear plan and strategy for what you need your PDM system to achieve and then matching the systems requirements back against your plan will help you to find the most suitable tool.
2. What are your service requirements?
Just because a system meets your requirements, doesn’t necessarily mean that your PDM system will be a success. The service requirements will have a real impact on the implementation and long-term use of the system. This will include:
- Changing/Updating your processes to work with your new system
- Training and support for you and your team
- Long-term support and maintenance plan
3. Does your PDM system provider match your needs?
The partner organisation that you choose to work with will have an impact on the success of your PDM system. Being comfortable with the relationship with your partner is important when working on any significant new system implementation. In addition to having a strong working-relationship, it’s also important that they can provide you with the expertise you need to make the implementation of your PDM system a success.
4. Are there any special considerations?
In addition to the points listed above, there could also be special considerations that specifically relate to your company. This could be to do with the size of your organisation, as particularly small or large companies tend to have different requirements from their PDM systems. There could also be industry specific consideration that you need to bear in mind, as these will have an impact on the PDM system that you choose.
