Simple vs. Complex: Which is the better path to take when it comes to deciding between Document Management and BOM Management?  According to Aras Partner Razorleaf, simple is not always better, and sometimes the more complex route is the smarter choice.  Razorleaf, a leading consulting services provider for PLM, PDM/TDM and more, has seen this again and again during their years of experience with mid-market manufacturers.

Many companies are looking for “simple” solutions to their product development problems, but it turns out that basic Document Management is simply not enough.  In many cases, Item/BOM Management and more full PLM functionality are what is needed to solve companies’ problems.  Why are companies willing to deal with the increased complexity of PLM systems over the relative simplicity of basic Document Management?  It seems to be slightly different for everyone, but some of the most common reasons include:

• Drawing revisions are not sufficient for keeping design stakeholders synchronized
• Keeping critical product information locked away inside of 3D CAD systems is counter-productive
• BOM management’s complexity provides additional flexibility – which is what companies need today to be responsive to the market

To find out how this transformation from Document Management to BOM Management works, and more about Razorleaf’s experience with Aras PLM, take a look at the slides below from the Aras Community Event.