PLM: definition, specific features, differences and examples

Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) refers to the management of a product's lifecycle, from design to disposal. This concept is firmly rooted in the field of industrial management, and is crucial for companies aiming to improve their competitiveness. A PLM system centralizes all product-related information, facilitating collaboration, innovation and the development of quality products.

Implementing such a system involves a multitude of players and processes within the company. PLM solutions enable precise monitoring and analysis of every stage in the product lifecycle. The digitization of product data via PLM promotes a more agile approach and better problem solving, but above all lays the foundations for a complete digital transformation.

The adoption of a PLM system translates into an undeniable competitive advantage. Organizations can optimize the supply chain, align the ERP project with the product lifecycle, and access dedicated consulting services to support team integration and training. This global management translates into lower costs and faster time-to-market.

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How do you implement a PLM product lifecycle management system?

Implementing a PLM system involves several stages. First, it's essential to define your company's specific objectives, and to carry out an audit of existing processes to identify any inefficiencies. 

Once the solution has been chosen, the deployment of the system needs to be orchestrated, integrating the data dimension and existing project management processes. Integration within the supply chain and synergy with other management systems (such as ERP) must be carefully planned. Finally, team training and change management support are crucial to ensuring a successful transition to PLM.

The success of such an implementation relies on continuous monitoring and the use of regular system updates. Companies can benefit from expert PLM consulting and an agile approach to fine-tuning the use of PLM in line with product developments and market requirements.

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The main benefits of a PLM system for your company

• Centralized product data management for consistency and quality.
• Shorter time-to-market thanks to better interdepartmental coordination.
• Optimization of production and product development costs.
• Improved risk management and regulatory compliance.
• Ability to innovate faster and tailor offers to customer expectations.

Using PLM transforms the way products are designed, manufactured and maintained. By integrating artificial intelligence and 3D modeling, companies adopt a more proactive approach to maintenance and innovation. Collaboration is also enhanced thanks to real-time sharing tools that remove silos between departments. Decision-making is based on reliable, up-to-date data, conducive to operational excellence.

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Why opt for a PLM system as part of your omnichannel strategy?

In a context of omnichannel consumption, where the customer is present on several platforms simultaneously, PLM is proving to be a crucial asset for brands, particularly in sectors such as fashion, luxury goods or thefood industry. PLM unifies all product information, guaranteeing a consistent experience across all distribution channels.

With Quable PIMproduct information is optimally managed, complementing PLM. The combination of a high-performance PIM and an efficient PLM system can propel a brand to digital success, offering a seamless customer experience and remarkably precise, well-orchestrated product data management.

Who uses PLM systems?

PLM systems are used by a wide variety ofcompanies operating in diverse industries. Consumer goods manufacturers, fashion and luxury brands, as well as companies specializing in leather goods or DIY, all take advantage of PLM's advanced functionalities to efficiently manage their product portfolios.

Technology and manufacturing companies, and even public or private organizations involved in majorinfrastructure projects, also use PLM systems to improve their project management processes and synchronize the efforts of their teams. In short, any entity seeking to benefit from a complete and detailed view of the life cycle of its products can be considered a potential PLM user.

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How PIM and PLM complement each other

The complementarity between a PIM (Product Information Management) and PLM is undeniable. While PLM focuses on optimizing product design and development, PIM takes care of the management and efficient distribution of product information across the various sales and communication channels.

Quable, as a product information management solution PIM, integrates seamlessly with PLM for seamless product data synchronization. This strategic alliance provides brands and manufacturers with consistent information that directly impacts the customer experience, marketing relevance and the acceleration of the product's passage from conception to consumption.

By unifying technical and marketing information, and streamlining data management from beginning to end of the product lifecycle, companies can now meet the challenges of modern distribution and the demands of an increasingly informed and demanding customer base.

Ultimately, the joint use of a PIM like Quable and a PLM system can be seen as a real lever for the accessibility of product information and for a company's ability to position itself advantageously in its market.

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