FAQ

What are the requirements for running your system?

MarcL — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 14:17:49 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by MarcL on 9/22/2011 10:17:49 AM

What are the requirements for running your system?

Aras Innovator; is a Microsoft .NET based Web application. A Microsoft Windows Server, SQL Server, the .NET environment, and a Microsoft based PC workstation or laptop running Internet Explorer6.1 7 or higher are required. Aras Innovator can also be run as a multi-tenant hosted service. Contact info@aras.com for more information about the hosting packages.

What are the requirements for running your system?

Peter Schroer — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:11:39 GMT

Revision 2 posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 3/13/2009 4:11:39 PM

What are the requirements for running your system?

Aras Innovator® ; is a Microsoft .NET based Web application. A Microsoft Windows Server, SQL Server, the .NET environment, and a Microsoft based PC workstation or laptop running Internet Explorer 6.1 or higher are required. Aras Innovator ® can also be run as a multi-tenant hosted service. Contact info@aras.com for more information about the hosting packages.

What are the requirements for running your system?

Peter Schroer — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:11:25 GMT

Revision 1 posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 3/13/2009 4:11:25 PM

Aras Innovator® is a Microsoft .NET based Web application. A Microsoft Windows Server, SQL Server, the .NET environment, and a Microsoft based PC workstation or laptop running Internet Explorer 6.1 or higher are required. Aras Innovator® can also be run as a multi-tenant hosted service. Contact info@aras.com for more information about the hosting packages.

Aras vs. MatrixOne - How do they compare

tomdigate — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:56:03 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by tomdigate on 6/13/2011 1:56:03 PM

Aras vs. MatrixOne - How do they compare

Aras PLM vs Enovia Matrixone :

Aras PLM		Enovia Matrixone PLM
Low cost IT infrastructure. 100% Microsoft .NET and SqlServer for the lowest overall IT infrastructure cost of ownership.		Expensive Oracle/DB2 database licenses and proprietary application servers. Maintenance, support and upgrades are more expensive.
Lower cost IT skills sets. Less DBA work required, and all IT resources will be the less expensive Microsoft certified professionals.	Requires expensive Matrixone Consultants,Oracle DBA’s to manage the system. Administrative support work is 3x – 5x more than an Aras Innovator installation.
Administration – Very easy to create, modify and maintain the administration objects/items. Modifications can be done on the Aras Innovator it self and server restart is not required to make those changes effective.		Administration- All administration activities has to perform in Business Modeller and server restart is required to make those changes effective.
AML(Aras Markup Language)- Extension to XML by which you can connect to database using html screen directly and perform various database operations like create,modify and delete database items.		MQL (matrix Query Language)- It’s another form of SQL(Sequential query language) queries. By which you can connect to database directly and perform various database operations like create,modify and delete database items.
Single tool i.e, Aras Innovator for all the administration ,Datamodel and business process applications.		Different tools involved in Administration and Datamodel creation. 1) System modeler – System administrator activities i.e, Store ,vault, FCS setup etc., 2) Business Modeller – Used to create data model , Policy defionition,Workflow creation ,Access level definition,etc., 3) MQL – Connecting to database to perform various operations like create,modify/delete database items. 4) Matrix Navigator – To perform business object operations i.e, Business object creation ,Business object modification,File Checkin/checkout etc., 5) Application URL : To access the PLM application for end users.
User Interface Customization – Very easy in terms of creating new User interface screens , Modifying the existing user interface screens . By Using real time drag and drop functionality UI customizations can be done 1/10 th of effort compared to Matrixone PLM tool.		User Interface Customization – Lot of customizations required to modify datamodel and code i.e, command object,webform object, Complex code changes in JPO (Java program Object)etc. In total lot of effort and testing activities involved for minor user interface changes also. And Matrixone Application Developers involvement is necessary to do any kind of User Interface changes.
C# or VB.net will be used for code changes . Code changes can be done directly in Aras Innovator and server restart is not required for any kind of code changes.		Java,JSP used for code changes. Server restart is required in case of any JAR file modifications.
Advanced Model-Based SOA Architecture means the system is inherently flexible and can be rapidly customized to meet customer’s needs without extensive programming. Aras Innovator Model-Based architecture supports continuous improvement, allowing ongoing data model, process model and business changes, simply, and risk-free through the Aras Innovator drag-and-drop user interface. Aras Innovator implementation projects have been delivered under-budget and ahead of schedule.		Object-oriented technology is difficult to modify to fit customer needs. Very few customers can support their own systems, requiring external consultants (expensive) for the initial deployment, and additional consultants for every minor customization that is required after go-live. Many Enovia Matrixone PLM implementation projects never finish on schedule…
Advanced Model-Based Architecture means faster deployment of upgrades. Even heavily customized customer solutions are upgraded to the next major Aras Innovator version in less than 2 weeks by a single engineer.		Hard-coded customizations, and rigid object oriented approach penalizes customers who modify the software to fit their business needs. Even minor customizations result in 3-6 months upgrade projects and Major upgrades result in 6-12 months upgrade projects with large consulting teams when new major versions are released. And for each major version change upgrade technical stack also (JDK, App server, Data base version etc.,) has to be upgraded as well. This involves extra cost apart from the PLM license cost.
Aras Subscription is optional. If the customer does not need enterprise class support, they don’t need to buy it. Customer can also skip a year if necessary.		Not likely.
Aras Subscription includes the software AND consulting labor to perform upgrades... even of the customized system. Aras Model-Based technology makes this affordable and achievable.		Every upgrade is another PO and another large consulting project. Customizations are generally not even supported during upgrade
Unlimited User Licensing to allow inclusion of all employees and supply chain partners in the PLM system, without expensive named user licenses. Simple Subscription pricing allow predictable, fixed pricing.		Expensive named user licensing and maintenance contracts means high capital expense up front, and varying costs each year as the PLM system rolls out.
Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available		Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available
Integrations with all major ERP systems are available		Integrations with all major ERP systems are available
In Built Full text search functionality .No extra setup, configuration and servers required to maintain the indexed data.		In Built Full text search functionality But extra setup, configuration and servers required to maintain the indexed data.
Business Ready solutions Comparison
Change Management		Engineering central
Document Management		Library central
Product management		Product central
Program Management		Program central
Quality planning and Quality systems module		Material compliance central
Requirements Management		Requirements central
Integration to various systems doesn’t require any separate business ready solution . It will be done directly through Aras Innovator tool itself.		Designer central – connect to Various CAD/CAM tools
N/A		Supplier central
Variant configuration Management		Variant configuration central
N/A		Specification central
N/A		Sourcing central
Risk Management		N/A
Skills and Training Management		N/A
Manufacturing Process Planning, ISO		N/A
Can be deployed and used in production for unlimited users for no cost. If the customer does not need help, they don’t pay for services or Subscription. Aras is confident that we provide the highest value-add services, and so can offer our enterprise class support services as an option, rather than forcing customers to spend money through legal contracts and coercion.		Not Likely

Aras vs. MatrixOne - How do they compare

MarcL — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:40:02 GMT

Revision 4 posted to FAQ by MarcL on 4/5/2011 9:40:02 AM

Aras vs. MatrixOne - How do they compare

Aras PLM vs Enovia Matrixone :

Aras PLM		Enovia Matrixone PLM
Low cost IT infrastructure. 100% Microsoft .NET and SqlServer for the lowest overall IT infrastructure cost of ownership.		Expensive Oracle/DB2 database licenses and proprietary application servers. Maintenance, support and upgrades are more expensive.
Lower cost IT skills sets. Less DBA work required, and all IT resources will be the less expensive Microsoft certified professionals.	Requires expensive Matrixone Consultants,Oracle DBA’s to manage the system. Administrative support work is 3x – 5x more than an Aras Innovator installation.
Administration – Very easy to create, modify and maintain the administration objects/items. Modifications can be done on the Aras Innovator it self and server restart is not required to make those changes effective.		Administration- All administration activities has to perform in Business Modeller and server restart is required to make those changes effective.
AML(Aras Markup Language)- Extension to XML by which you can connect to database using html screen directly and perform various database operations like create,modify and delete database items.		MQL (matrix Query Language)- It’s another form of SQL(Sequential query language) queries. By which you can connect to database directly and perform various database operations like create,modify and delete database items.
Single tool i.e, Aras Innovator for all the administration ,Datamodel and business process applications.		Diiferent	Different tools involved in Administration and Datamodel creation. 1) System modeler – System administrator activities i.e, Store ,vault, FCS setup etc., 2) Business Modeller – Used to create data model , Policy defionition,Workflow creation ,Access level definition,etc., 3) MQL – Connecting to database to perform various operations like create,modify/delete database items. 4) Matrix Navigator – To perform business object operations i.e, Business object creation ,Business object modification,File Checkin/checkout etc., 5) Application URL : To access the PLM application for end users.
User Interface Customization – Very easy in terms of creating new User interface screens , Modifying the existing user interface screens . By Using real time drag and drop functionality UI customizations can be done 1/10 th of effort compared to Matrixone PLM tool.		User Interface Customization – Lot of customizations required to modify datamodel and code i.e, command object,webform object, Complex code changes in JPO (Java program Object)etc. In total lot of effort and testing activities involved for minor user interface changes also. And Matrixone Application Developers involvement is necessary to do any kind of User Interface changes.
C# or VB.net will be used for code changes . Code changes can be done directly in Aras Innovator and server restart is not required for any kind of code changes.		Java,JSP used for code changes. Server restart is required in case of any JAR file modifications.
Advanced Model-Based SOA Architecture means the system is inherently flexible and can be rapidly customized to meet customer’s needs without extensive programming. Aras Innovator Model-Based architecture supports continuous improvement, allowing ongoing data model, process model and business changes, simply, and risk-free through the Aras Innovator drag-and-drop user interface. Aras Innovator implementation projects have been delivered under-budget and ahead of schedule.		Object-oriented technology is difficult to modify to fit customer needs. Very few customers can support their own systems, requiring external consultants (expensive) for the initial deployment, and additional consultants for every minor customization that is required after go-live. Many Enovia Matrixone PLM implementation projects never finish on schedule…
Advanced Model-Based Architecture means faster deployment of upgrades. Even heavily customized customer solutions are upgraded to the next major Aras Innovator version in less than 2 weeks by a single engineer.		Hard-coded customizations, and rigid object oriented approach penalizes customers who modify the software to fit their business needs. Even minor customizations result in 3-6 months upgrade projects and Major upgrades result in 6-12 months upgrade projects with large consulting teams when new major versions are released. And for each major version change upgrade technical stack also (JDK, App server, Data base version etc.,) has to be upgraded as well. This involves extra cost apart from the PLM license cost.
Aras Subscription is optional. If the customer does not need enterprise class support, they don’t need to buy it. Customer can also skip a year if necessary.		Not likely.
Aras Subscription includes the software AND consulting labor to perform upgrades... even of the customized system. Aras Model-Based technology makes this affordable and achievable.		Every upgrade is another PO and another large consulting project. Customizations are generally not even supported during upgrade
Unlimited User Licensing to allow inclusion of all employees and supply chain partners in the PLM system, without expensive named user licenses. Simple Subscription pricing allow predictable, fixed pricing.		Expensive named user licensing and maintenance contracts means high capital expense up front, and varying costs each year as the PLM system rolls out.
Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available		Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available
Integrations with all major ERP systems are available		Integrations with all major ERP systems are available
In Built Full text search functionality .No extra setup, configuration and servers required to maintain the indexed data.		In Built Full text search functionality But extra setup, configuration and servers required to maintain the indexed data.
Business Ready solutions Comparison
Change Management		Engineering central
Document Management		Library central
Product management		Product central
Program Management		Program central
Quality planning and Quality systems module		Material compliance central
Requirements Management		Requirements central
Integration to various systems doesn’t require any separate business ready solution . It will be done directly through Aras Innovator tool itself.		Designer central – connect to Various CAD/CAM tools
N/A		Supplier central
Variant configuration Management		Variant configuration central
N/A		Specification central
N/A		Sourcing central
Risk Management		N/A
Skills and Training Management		N/A
Manufacturing Process Planning, ISO		N/A
Can be deployed and used in production for unlimited users for no cost. If the customer does not need help, they don’t pay for services or Subscription. Aras is confident that we provide the highest value-add services, and so can offer our enterprise class support services as an option, rather than forcing customers to spend money through legal contracts and coercion.		Not Likely

Aras vs. MatrixOne - How do they compare

Srinivasarao Medam — Mon, 10 May 2010 10:28:29 GMT

Revision 3 posted to FAQ by Srinivasarao Medam on 5/10/2010 6:28:29 AM

Aras vs. MatrixOne - How do they compare

Aras PLM vs Enovia Matrixone :

Aras PLM		Enovia Matrixone PLM
Low cost IT infrastructure. 100% Microsoft .NET and SqlServer for the lowest overall IT infrastructure cost of ownership.		Expensive Oracle/DB2 database licenses and proprietary application servers. Maintenance, support and upgrades are more expensive.
Lower cost IT skills sets. Less DBA work required, and all IT resources will be the less expensive Microsoft certified professionals.	Requires expensive Matrixone Consultants,Oracle DBA’s to manage the system. Administrative support work is 3x – 5x more than an Aras Innovator installation.
Administration – Very easy to create, modify and maintain the administration objects/items. Modifications can be done on the Aras Innovator it self and server restart is not required to make those changes effective.		Administration- All administration activities has to perform in Business Modeller and server restart is required to make those changes effective.
AML(Aras Markup Language)- Extension to XML by which you can connect to database using html screen directly and perform various database operations like create,modify and delete database items.		MQL (matrix Query Language)- It’s another form of SQL(Sequential query language) queries. by By which you can connect to database using html screen directly and perform various database operations like create,modify and delete database items.
Single tool i.e, Aras Innovator for all the administration ,Datamodel and business process applications.		Diiferent tools involved in Administration and Datamodel creation. 1) System modeler – System administrator activities i.e, Store ,vault, FCS setup etc., 2) Business Modeller – Used to create data model , Policy defionition,Workflow creation ,Access level definition,etc., 3) MQL – Connecting to database to perform various operations like create,modify/delete database items. 4) Matrix Navigator – To perform business object operations i.e, Business object creation ,Business object modification,File Checkin/checkout etc., 5) Application URL : To access the PLM application for end users.
User Interface Customization – Very easy in terms of creating new User interface screens , Modifying the existing user interface screens . By Using real time drag and drop functionality UI customizations can be done 1/10 th of effort compared to Matrixone PLM tool.		User Interface Customization – Lot of customizations required to modify datamodel and code i.e, command object,webform object, Complex code changes in JPO (Java program Object)etc. In total lot of effort and testing activities involved for minor user interface changes also. And Matrixone Application Developers involvement is necessary to do any kind of User Interface changes.
C# or VB.net will be used for code changes . Code changes can be done directly in Aras Innovator and server restart is not required for any kind of code changes.		Java,JSP used for code changes. Server restart is required in case of any JAR file modifications.
Advanced Model-Based SOA Architecture means the system is inherently flexible and can be rapidly customized to meet customer’s needs without extensive programming. Aras Innovator Model-Based architecture supports continuous improvement, allowing ongoing data model, process model and business changes, simply, and risk-free through the Aras Innovator drag-and-drop user interface. Aras Innovator implementation projects have been delivered under-budget and ahead of schedule.		Object-oriented technology is difficult to modify to fit customer needs. Very few customers can support their own systems, requiring external consultants (expensive) for the initial deployment, and additional consultants for every minor customization that is required after go-live. Many Enovia Matrixone PLM implementation projects never finish on schedule…
Advanced Model-Based Architecture means faster deployment of upgrades. Even heavily customized customer solutions are upgraded to the next major Aras Innovator version in less than 2 weeks by a single engineer.		Hard-coded customizations, and rigid object oriented approach penalizes customers who modify the software to fit their business needs. Even minor customizations result in 3-6 months upgrade projects and Major upgrades result in 6-12 months upgrade projects with large consulting teams when new major versions are released. And for each major version change upgrade technical stack also (JDK, App server, Data base version etc.,) has to be upgraded as well. This involves extra cost apart from the PLM license cost.
Aras Subscription is optional. If the customer does not need enterprise class support, they don’t need to buy it. Customer can also skip a year if necessary.		Not likely.
Aras Subscription includes the software AND consulting labor to perform upgrades... even of the customized system. Aras Model-Based technology makes this affordable and achievable.		Every upgrade is another PO and another large consulting project. Customizations are generally not even supported during upgrade
Unlimited User Licensing to allow inclusion of all employees and supply chain partners in the PLM system, without expensive named user licenses. Simple Subscription pricing allow predictable, fixed pricing.		Expensive named user licensing and maintenance contracts means high capital expense up front, and varying costs each year as the PLM system rolls out.
Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available		Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available
Integrations with all major ERP systems are available		Integrations with all major ERP systems are available
In Built Full text search functionality .No extra setup, configuration and servers required to maintain the indexed data.		In Built Full text search functionality But extra setup, configuration and servers required to maintain the indexed data.
Business Ready solutions Comparison
Change Management		Engineering central
Document Management		Library central
Product management		Product central
Program Management		Program central
Quality planning and Quality systems module		Material compliance central
Requirements Management		Requirements central
Integration to various systems doesn’t require any separate business ready solution . It will be done directly through Aras Innovator tool itself.		Designer central – connect to Various CAD/CAM tools
N/A		Supplier central
Variant configuration Management		Variant configuration central
N/A		Specification central
N/A		Sourcing central
Risk Management		N/A
Skills and Training Management		N/A
Manufacturing Process Planning, ISO		N/A
Can be deployed and used in production for unlimited users for no cost. If the customer does not need help, they don’t pay for services or Subscription. Aras is confident that we provide the highest value-add services, and so can offer our enterprise class support services as an option, rather than forcing customers to spend money through legal contracts and coercion.		Not Likely

Aras vs. MatrixOne - How do they compare

Peter Schroer — Sun, 09 May 2010 11:32:15 GMT

Revision 2 posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 5/9/2010 7:32:15 AM

Aras vs. MatrixOne - How do they compare

Aras PLM vs Enovia Matrixone :

Aras PLM<o:p></o:p>		Enovia Matrixone PLM<o:p></o:p>
Low cost IT infrastructure. 100% Microsoft .NET and SqlServer for the lowest overall IT infrastructure cost of ownership.<o:p></o:p>		Expensive Oracle/DB2 database licenses and proprietary application servers. Maintenance, support and upgrades are more expensive.<o:p></o:p>
Lower cost IT skills sets. Less DBA work required, and all IT resources will be the less expensive Microsoft certified professionals.<o:p></o:p>	Requires expensive Matrixone Consultants,Oracle DBA’s to manage the system. Administrative support work is 3x – 5x more than an Aras Innovator installation.<o:p></o:p>
Administration – Very easy to create, modify and maintain the administration objects/items. Modifications can be done on the Aras Innovator it self and server restart is not required to make those changes effective.<o:p></o:p>		Administration- All administration activities has to perform in Business Modeller and server restart is required to make those changes effective.<o:p></o:p>
AML(Aras Markup Language)- Extension to XML by which you can connect to database using html screen directly and perform various database operations like create,modify and delete database items.<o:p></o:p>		MQL (matrix Query Language)- It’s another form of SQL(Sequential query language) queries. by which you can connect to database using html screen directly and perform various database operations like create,modify and delete database items.<o:p></o:p>
Single tool i.e, Aras Innovator for all the administration ,Datamodel and business process applications.<o:p></o:p>		Diiferent tools involved in Administration and Datamodel creation.<o:p></o:p> 1) System modeler – System administrator activities i.e, Store ,vault, FCS setup etc.,<o:p></o:p> 2) Business Modeller – Used to create data model , Policy defionition,Workflow creation ,Access level definition,etc.,<o:p></o:p> 3) MQL – Connecting to database to perform various operations like create,modify/delete database items.<o:p></o:p> 4) Matrix Navigator – To perform business object operations i.e, Business object creation ,Business object modification,File Checkin/checkout etc.,<o:p></o:p> 5) Application URL : To access the PLM application for end users.<o:p></o:p>
User Interface Customization – Very easy in terms of creating new User interface screens , Modifying the existing user interface screens . By Using real time drag and drop functionality UI customizations can be done 1/10 th of effort compared to Matrixone PLM tool.<o:p></o:p>		User Interface Customization – Lot of customizations required to modify datamodel and code i.e, command object,webform object, Complex code changes in JPO (Java program Object)etc. In total lot of effort and testing activities involved for minor user interface changes also. And Matrixone Application Developers involvement is necessary to do any kind of User Interface changes.<o:p></o:p>
C# or VB.net will be used for code changes . Code changes can be done directly in Aras Innovator and server restart is not required for any kind of code changes.<o:p></o:p>		Java,JSP used for code changes. Server restart is required in case of any JAR file modifications.<o:p></o:p>
Advanced Model-Based SOA Architecture means the system is inherently flexible and can be rapidly customized to meet customer’s needs without extensive programming. Aras Innovator Model-Based architecture supports continuous improvement, allowing ongoing data model, process model and business changes, simply, and risk-free through the Aras Innovator drag-and-drop user interface.<o:p></o:p> Aras Innovator implementation projects have been delivered under-budget and ahead of schedule.<o:p></o:p>		Object-oriented technology is difficult to modify to fit customer needs. Very few customers can support their own systems, requiring external consultants (expensive) for the initial deployment, and additional consultants for every minor customization that is required after go-live.<o:p></o:p> Many Enovia Matrixone PLM implementation projects never finish on schedule…<o:p></o:p>…
Advanced Model-Based Architecture means faster deployment of upgrades. Even heavily customized customer solutions are upgraded to the next major Aras Innovator version in less than 2 weeks by a single engineer. <o:p></o:p>		Hard-coded customizations, and rigid object oriented approach penalizes customers who modify the software to fit their business needs. Even minor customizations result in 3-6 months upgrade projects and Major upgrades result in 6-12 months upgrade projects with large consulting teams when new major versions are released. And for each major version change upgrade technical stack also (JDK, App server, Data base version etc.,) has to be upgraded as well. This involves extra cost apart from the PLM license cost.<o:p></o:p>
Aras Subscription is optional. If the customer does not need enterprise class support, they don’t need to buy it. Customer can also skip a year if necessary.<o:p></o:p>		Not likely.<o:p></o:p>
Aras Subscription includes the software AND consulting labor to perform upgrades... even of the customized system. Aras Model-Based technology makes this affordable and achievable.<o:p></o:p>		Every upgrade is another PO and another large consulting project. Customizations are generally not even supported during upgrade<o:p></o:p>
Unlimited User Licensing to allow inclusion of all employees and supply chain partners in the PLM system, without expensive named user licenses. Simple Subscription pricing allow predictable, fixed pricing.<o:p></o:p>		Expensive named user licensing and maintenance contracts means high capital expense up front, and varying costs each year as the PLM system rolls out.<o:p></o:p>
Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available<o:p></o:p>		Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available<o:p></o:p>
Integrations with all major ERP systems are available<o:p></o:p>		Integrations with all major ERP systems are available<o:p></o:p>
In Built Full text search functionality .No extra setup, configuration and servers required to maintain the indexed data.<o:p></o:p>		In Built Full text search functionality But extra setup, configuration and servers required to maintain the indexed data.<o:p></o:p>
Business Ready solutions Comparison<o:p></o:p>
Change Management<o:p></o:p>		Engineering central<o:p></o:p>
Document Management<o:p></o:p>		Library central<o:p></o:p>
Product management<o:p></o:p>		Product central<o:p></o:p>
Program Management<o:p></o:p>		Program central<o:p></o:p>
Quality planning and Quality systems module<o:p></o:p>		Material compliance central<o:p></o:p>
Requirements Management<o:p></o:p>		Requirements central<o:p></o:p>
Integration to various systems doesn’t require any separate business ready solution . It will be done directly through Aras Innovator tool itself.<o:p></o:p>		Designer central – connect to Various CAD/CAM tools<o:p></o:p>
N/A<o:p></o:p>		Supplier central<o:p></o:p>
Variant configuration Management<o:p></o:p>		Variant configuration central<o:p></o:p>
N/A<o:p></o:p>		Specification central<o:p></o:p>
N/A<o:p></o:p>		Sourcing central<o:p></o:p>
Risk Management <o:p></o:p>		N/A<o:p></o:p>
Skills and Training Management<o:p></o:p>		N/A<o:p></o:p>
Manufacturing Process Planning, ISO<o:p></o:p>		N/A<o:p></o:p>
Can be deployed and used in production for unlimited users for no cost. If the customer does not need help, they don’t pay for services or Subscription.<o:p></o:p> Aras is confident that we provide the highest value-add services, and so can offer our enterprise class support services as an option, rather than forcing customers to spend money through legal contracts and coercion. <o:p></o:p>		Not Likely<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Aras vs. MatrixOne - How do they compare

Peter Schroer — Sun, 09 May 2010 11:31:08 GMT

Revision 1 posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 5/9/2010 7:31:08 AM

Aras PLM vs Enovia Matrixone :

Aras PLM<o:p></o:p>		Enovia Matrixone PLM<o:p></o:p>
Low cost IT infrastructure. 100% Microsoft .NET and SqlServer for the lowest overall IT infrastructure cost of ownership.<o:p></o:p>		Expensive Oracle/DB2 database licenses and proprietary application servers. Maintenance, support and upgrades are more expensive.<o:p></o:p>
Lower cost IT skills sets. Less DBA work required, and all IT resources will be the less expensive Microsoft certified professionals.<o:p></o:p>	Requires expensive Matrixone Consultants,Oracle DBA’s to manage the system. Administrative support work is 3x – 5x more than an Aras Innovator installation.<o:p></o:p>
Administration – Very easy to create, modify and maintain the administration objects/items. Modifications can be done on the Aras Innovator it self and server restart is not required to make those changes effective.<o:p></o:p>		Administration- All administration activities has to perform in Business Modeller and server restart is required to make those changes effective.<o:p></o:p>
AML(Aras Markup Language)- Extension to XML by which you can connect to database using html screen directly and perform various database operations like create,modify and delete database items.<o:p></o:p>		MQL (matrix Query Language)- It’s another form of SQL(Sequential query language) queries. by which you can connect to database using html screen directly and perform various database operations like create,modify and delete database items.<o:p></o:p>
Single tool i.e, Aras Innovator for all the administration ,Datamodel and business process applications.<o:p></o:p>		Diiferent tools involved in Administration and Datamodel creation.<o:p></o:p> 1) System modeler – System administrator activities i.e, Store ,vault, FCS setup etc.,<o:p></o:p> 2) Business Modeller – Used to create data model , Policy defionition,Workflow creation ,Access level definition,etc.,<o:p></o:p> 3) MQL – Connecting to database to perform various operations like create,modify/delete database items.<o:p></o:p> 4) Matrix Navigator – To perform business object operations i.e, Business object creation ,Business object modification,File Checkin/checkout etc.,<o:p></o:p> 5) Application URL : To access the PLM application for end users.<o:p></o:p>
User Interface Customization – Very easy in terms of creating new User interface screens , Modifying the existing user interface screens . By Using real time drag and drop functionality UI customizations can be done 1/10 th of effort compared to Matrixone PLM tool.<o:p></o:p>		User Interface Customization – Lot of customizations required to modify datamodel and code i.e, command object,webform object, Complex code changes in JPO (Java program Object)etc. In total lot of effort and testing activities involved for minor user interface changes also. And Matrixone Application Developers involvement is necessary to do any kind of User Interface changes.<o:p></o:p>
C# or VB.net will be used for code changes . Code changes can be done directly in Aras Innovator and server restart is not required for any kind of code changes.<o:p></o:p>		Java,JSP used for code changes. Server restart is required in case of any JAR file modifications.<o:p></o:p>
Advanced Model-Based SOA Architecture means the system is inherently flexible and can be rapidly customized to meet customer’s needs without extensive programming. Aras Innovator Model-Based architecture supports continuous improvement, allowing ongoing data model, process model and business changes, simply, and risk-free through the Aras Innovator drag-and-drop user interface.<o:p></o:p> Aras Innovator implementation projects have been delivered under-budget and ahead of schedule.<o:p></o:p>		Object-oriented technology is difficult to modify to fit customer needs. Very few customers can support their own systems, requiring external consultants (expensive) for the initial deployment, and additional consultants for every minor customization that is required after go-live.<o:p></o:p> Many Enovia Matrixone PLM implementation projects never finish on schedule…<o:p></o:p>
Advanced Model-Based Architecture means faster deployment of upgrades. Even heavily customized customer solutions are upgraded to the next major Aras Innovator version in less than 2 weeks by a single engineer. <o:p></o:p>		Hard-coded customizations, and rigid object oriented approach penalizes customers who modify the software to fit their business needs. Even minor customizations result in 3-6 months upgrade projects and Major upgrades result in 6-12 months upgrade projects with large consulting teams when new major versions are released. And for each major version change upgrade technical stack also (JDK, App server, Data base version etc.,) has to be upgraded as well. This involves extra cost apart from the PLM license cost.<o:p></o:p>
Aras Subscription is optional. If the customer does not need enterprise class support, they don’t need to buy it. Customer can also skip a year if necessary.<o:p></o:p>		Not likely.<o:p></o:p>
Aras Subscription includes the software AND consulting labor to perform upgrades... even of the customized system. Aras Model-Based technology makes this affordable and achievable.<o:p></o:p>		Every upgrade is another PO and another large consulting project. Customizations are generally not even supported during upgrade<o:p></o:p>
Unlimited User Licensing to allow inclusion of all employees and supply chain partners in the PLM system, without expensive named user licenses. Simple Subscription pricing allow predictable, fixed pricing.<o:p></o:p>		Expensive named user licensing and maintenance contracts means high capital expense up front, and varying costs each year as the PLM system rolls out.<o:p></o:p>
Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available<o:p></o:p>		Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available<o:p></o:p>
Integrations with all major ERP systems are available<o:p></o:p>		Integrations with all major ERP systems are available<o:p></o:p>
In Built Full text search functionality .No extra setup, configuration and servers required to maintain the indexed data.<o:p></o:p>		In Built Full text search functionality But extra setup, configuration and servers required to maintain the indexed data.<o:p></o:p>
Business Ready solutions Comparison<o:p></o:p>
Change Management<o:p></o:p>		Engineering central<o:p></o:p>
Document Management<o:p></o:p>		Library central<o:p></o:p>
Product management<o:p></o:p>		Product central<o:p></o:p>
Program Management<o:p></o:p>		Program central<o:p></o:p>
Quality planning and Quality systems module<o:p></o:p>		Material compliance central<o:p></o:p>
Requirements Management<o:p></o:p>		Requirements central<o:p></o:p>
Integration to various systems doesn’t require any separate business ready solution . It will be done directly through Aras Innovator tool itself.<o:p></o:p>		Designer central – connect to Various CAD/CAM tools<o:p></o:p>
N/A<o:p></o:p>		Supplier central<o:p></o:p>
Variant configuration Management<o:p></o:p>		Variant configuration central<o:p></o:p>
N/A<o:p></o:p>		Specification central<o:p></o:p>
N/A<o:p></o:p>		Sourcing central<o:p></o:p>
Risk Management <o:p></o:p>		N/A<o:p></o:p>
Skills and Training Management<o:p></o:p>		N/A<o:p></o:p>
Manufacturing Process Planning, ISO<o:p></o:p>		N/A<o:p></o:p>
Can be deployed and used in production for unlimited users for no cost. If the customer does not need help, they don’t pay for services or Subscription.<o:p></o:p> Aras is confident that we provide the highest value-add services, and so can offer our enterprise class support services as an option, rather than forcing customers to spend money through legal contracts and coercion. <o:p></o:p>		Not Likely<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Aras vs. Agile - How do they compare...

Peter Schroer — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 11:53:31 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 9/1/2009 7:53:31 AM

Aras vs. Agile - How do they compare...

How to compare Aras Innovator to Agile A9

We're often asked for guidance on how to compare Aras Innovator to Agile A9. It's not exactly an Apples-2-Apples comparison, but here is an overview that should help:

Aras Innovator	Agile A9
Low cost IT infrastructure. 100% Microsoft .NET and SqlServer for the lowest overall IT infrastructure cost of ownership.	Expensive Oracle database licenses and proprietary application servers. Maintenance, support and upgrades are more expensive.
Lower cost IT skills sets. Less DBA work required, and all IT resources will be the less expensive Microsoft certified professionals.	Requires expensive Oracle DBA’s to manage the system. Administrative support work is 2x – 5x more than an Aras Innovator installation.
Advanced Model-Based SOA Architecture means the system is inherently flexible and can be rapidly customized to meet customer’s needs without extensive programming. Aras Innovator Model-Based architecture supports continuous improvement, allowing ongoing data model, process model and business changes, simply, and risk-free through the Aras Innovator drag-and-drop user interface. <o:p> </o:p> Aras Innovator implementation projects have been delivered under-budget and ahead of schedule.	Legacy object-oriented Client-Server technology is difficult to modify to fit customer needs. Very few customers can support their own systems, requiring external consultants (expensive) for the initial deployment, and additional consultants for every minor customization that is required after go-live. <o:p> </o:p> Many Agile A9 implementation projects never finish…
Advanced Model-Based Architecture means faster deployment of upgrades. Even heavily customized customer solutions are upgraded to the next major Aras Innovator version in less than 2 weeks by a single engineer.	Hard-coded customizations, and rigid object oriented approach penalizes customers who modify the software to fit their business needs. Even minor customizations result in 60-90 day upgrade projects with large consulting teams when new major versions are released.
Aras Subscription is optional. If the customer does not need enterprise class support, they don’t need to buy it. Customer can also skip a year if necessary.	Not likely.
Aras Subscription includes the software AND consulting labor to perform upgrades... even of the customized system. Aras Model-Based technology makes this affordable and achievable.	Every upgrade is another PO and another large consulting project. Customizations are generally not even supported during upgrade.
SharePoint integration co-developed with Microsoft and available as a Microsoft Certified solution.	Not likely.
Parts, BOM, Drawings, Product Portfolio, Project Management, ECO, Quality Systems, CAPA, FMEA, Risk Management, Manufacturing Process Planning, ISO, Skills and Training Management, Variant Configurator, and dozens more new solutions added to the community each year.	Parts, BOM, Drawings, Product Portfolio, Project Management, ECO. ß period <o:p> </o:p>
Unlimited User Licensing to allow inclusion of all employees and supply chain partners in the PLM system, without expensive named user licenses. Simple Subscription pricing allow predictable, fixed pricing.	Expensive named user licensing and maintenance contracts means high capital expense up front, and varying costs each year as the PLM system rolls out.
Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available	Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available
Integrations with all major ERP systems are available	Integrations with all major ERP systems are available
Can be deployed and used in production for unlimited users for no cost. If the customer does not need help, they don’t pay for services or Subscription. Aras is confident that we provide the highest value-add services, and so can offer our enterprise class support services as an option, rather than forcing customers to spend money through legal contracts and coercion.	Not Likely.

Aras vs. Agile - How do they compare...

Peter Schroer — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 16:01:01 GMT

Revision 2 posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 4/24/2009 12:01:01 PM

Aras vs. Agile - How do they compare...

How to compare Aras Innovator to Agile A9

We're often asked for guidance on how to compare Aras Innovator to Agile A9. It's not exactly an Apples-2-Apples comparison, but here is an overview that should help:

Aras Innovator<o:p></o:p>	Agile A9<o:p></o:p>
Low cost IT infrastructure. 100% Microsoft .NET and SqlServer for the lowest overall IT infrastructure cost of ownership.<o:p></o:p>	Expensive Oracle database licenses and proprietary application servers. Maintenance, support and upgrades are more expensive.<o:p></o:p>
Lower cost IT skills sets. Less DBA work required, and all IT resources will be the less expensive Microsoft certified professionals.<o:p></o:p>	Requires expensive Oracle DBA’s to manage the system. Administrative support work is 2x – 5x more than an Aras Innovator installation.<o:p></o:p>
Advanced Model-Based SOA Architecture means the system is inherently flexible and can be rapidly customized to meet customer’s needs without extensive programming. Aras Innovator Model-Based architecture supports continuous improvement, allowing ongoing data model, process model and business changes, simply, and risk-free through the Aras Innovator drag-and-drop user interface.<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Aras Innovator implementation projects have been delivered under-budget and ahead of schedule.	Legacy object-oriented Client-Server technology is difficult to modify to fit customer needs. Very few customers can support their own systems, requiring external consultants (expensive) for the initial deployment, and additional consultants for every minor customization that is required after go-live.<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> <o:p></o:p> Many Agile A9 implementation projects never finish…<o:p></o:p>…
Advanced Model-Based Architecture means faster deployment of upgrades. Even heavily customized customer solutions are upgraded to the next major Aras Innovator version in less than 2 weeks by a single engineer.<o:p></o:p>	Hard-coded customizations, and rigid object oriented approach penalizes customers who modify the software to fit their business needs. Even minor customizations result in 60-90 day upgrade projects with large consulting teams when new major versions are released.<o:p></o:p>
Aras Subscription is optional. If the customer does not need enterprise class support, they don’t need to buy it. Customer can also skip a year if necessary.<o:p></o:p>	Not likely.<o:p></o:p>
Aras Subscription includes the software AND consulting labor to perform upgrades... even of the customized system. Aras Model-Based technology makes this affordable and achievable.<o:p></o:p>	Every upgrade is another PO and another large consulting project. Customizations are generally not even supported during upgrade.<o:p></o:p>
SharePoint integration co-developed with Microsoft and available as a Microsoft Certified solution.<o:p></o:p>	Not likely.<o:p></o:p>
Parts, BOM, Drawings, Product Portfolio, Project Management, ECO,<o:p></o:p> Quality Systems, CAPA, FMEA, Risk Management, Manufacturing Process Planning, ISO, Skills and Training Management, Variant Configurator, and dozens more new solutions added to the community each year.	Parts, BOM, Drawings, Product Portfolio, Project Management, ECO. ß period<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p>
Unlimited User Licensing to allow inclusion of all employees and supply chain partners in the PLM system, without expensive named user licenses. Simple Subscription pricing allow predictable, fixed pricing.<o:p></o:p>	Expensive named user licensing and maintenance contracts means high capital expense up front, and varying costs each year as the PLM system rolls out.<o:p></o:p>
Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available<o:p></o:p>	Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available<o:p></o:p>
Integrations with all major ERP systems are available<o:p></o:p>	Integrations with all major ERP systems are available<o:p></o:p>
Can be deployed and used in production for unlimited users for no cost. If the customer does not need help, they don’t pay for services or Subscription.<o:p></o:p> <o:p></o:p> Aras is confident that we provide the highest value-add services, and so can offer our enterprise class support services as an option, rather than forcing customers to spend money through legal contracts and coercion. <o:p></o:p>	Not Likely.<o:p></o:p>

Aras vs. Agile - How do they compare...

Peter Schroer — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 15:59:02 GMT

Revision 1 posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 4/24/2009 11:59:02 AM

How to compare Aras Innovator to Agile A9

We're often asked for guidance on how to compare Aras Innovator to Agile A9. It's not exactly an Apples-2-Apples comparison, but here is an overview that should help:

Aras Innovator<o:p></o:p>	Agile A9<o:p></o:p>
Low cost IT infrastructure. 100% Microsoft .NET and SqlServer for the lowest overall IT infrastructure cost of ownership.<o:p></o:p>	Expensive Oracle database licenses and proprietary application servers. Maintenance, support and upgrades are more expensive.<o:p></o:p>
Lower cost IT skills sets. Less DBA work required, and all IT resources will be the less expensive Microsoft certified professionals.<o:p></o:p>	Requires expensive Oracle DBA’s to manage the system. Administrative support work is 2x – 5x more than an Aras Innovator installation.<o:p></o:p>
Advanced Model-Based SOA Architecture means the system is inherently flexible and can be rapidly customized to meet customer’s needs without extensive programming. Aras Innovator Model-Based architecture supports continuous improvement, allowing ongoing data model, process model and business changes, simply, and risk-free through the Aras Innovator drag-and-drop user interface.<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Aras Innovator implementation projects have been delivered under-budget and ahead of schedule.	Legacy object-oriented Client-Server technology is difficult to modify to fit customer needs. Very few customers can support their own systems, requiring external consultants (expensive) for the initial deployment, and additional consultants for every minor customization that is required after go-live.<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> <o:p></o:p> Many Agile A9 implementation projects never finish…<o:p></o:p>
Advanced Model-Based Architecture means faster deployment of upgrades. Even heavily customized customer solutions are upgraded to the next major Aras Innovator version in less than 2 weeks by a single engineer.<o:p></o:p>	Hard-coded customizations, and rigid object oriented approach penalizes customers who modify the software to fit their business needs. Even minor customizations result in 60-90 day upgrade projects with large consulting teams when new major versions are released.<o:p></o:p>
Aras Subscription is optional. If the customer does not need enterprise class support, they don’t need to buy it. Customer can also skip a year if necessary.<o:p></o:p>	Not likely.<o:p></o:p>
Aras Subscription includes the software AND consulting labor to perform upgrades... even of the customized system. Aras Model-Based technology makes this affordable and achievable.<o:p></o:p>	Every upgrade is another PO and another large consulting project. Customizations are generally not even supported during upgrade.<o:p></o:p>
SharePoint integration co-developed with Microsoft and available as a Microsoft Certified solution.<o:p></o:p>	Not likely.<o:p></o:p>
Parts, BOM, Drawings, Product Portfolio, Project Management, ECO,<o:p></o:p> Quality Systems, CAPA, FMEA, Risk Management, Manufacturing Process Planning, ISO, Skills and Training Management, Variant Configurator, and dozens more new solutions added to the community each year.	Parts, BOM, Drawings, Product Portfolio, Project Management, ECO. ß period<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p>
Unlimited User Licensing to allow inclusion of all employees and supply chain partners in the PLM system, without expensive named user licenses. Simple Subscription pricing allow predictable, fixed pricing.<o:p></o:p>	Expensive named user licensing and maintenance contracts means high capital expense up front, and varying costs each year as the PLM system rolls out.<o:p></o:p>
Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available<o:p></o:p>	Integrations for all CAD (mechanical and electrical) are available<o:p></o:p>
Integrations with all major ERP systems are available<o:p></o:p>	Integrations with all major ERP systems are available<o:p></o:p>
Can be deployed and used in production for unlimited users for no cost. If the customer does not need help, they don’t pay for services or Subscription.<o:p></o:p> <o:p></o:p> Aras is confident that we provide the highest value-add services, and so can offer our enterprise class support services as an option, rather than forcing customers to spend money through legal contracts and coercion. <o:p></o:p>	Not Likely.<o:p></o:p>

Aras vs. SAP PLM - How do they compare

Peter Schroer — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 11:51:24 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 9/1/2009 7:51:24 AM

We're often asked for guidance on how to compare Aras Innovator to SAP PLM. It's not exactly an Apples-2-Apples comparison, but here are some bullets we have been using:

Engineers do not like the SAP user interface, and will not use it. IT might think they are implementing a corporate PLM, but the engineers will build off-line solutions using MS-Access and Excel to actually run the engineering operations. Any customer should talk with references very carefully. Not the IT department or the executives, but the low level engineers who have to use the system for data entry. If these guys are not happy with SAP, the correct data will not be loaded in real-time, and the PLM is useless.
SAP PLM is much more difficult to customize than Aras Innovator. The customer may already own the licenses for SAP PLM, but we hear the implementation costs are very high, and the customer has to compromise -- i.e. change his processes to fit SAP’s idea of good practices.
What happens after simple CAD integration and BOM? SAP PLM is limited to simple PDMfunctions. Aras Innovator includes the Phase-Gate, general workflow for all engineering and quality and manufacturing functions.
Ask the SAP sales person about upgrades. Ask the reference accounts about upgrades. SAP can need 6-8 Months for a major upgrade. Not only is this a very long time, but it is very expensive with lots of consultants. Engineering is more dynamic, and will want support for latest Microsoft and CAD products much faster. Aras Innovator can be upgraded in less than 2 weeks, often in only 3 days, even for major upgrades with lots of customization, and there are no costs for major upgrades. All the labor is included in the fixed price Aras Subscription.
Both solutions offer "free licenses" , so the comparison should be on flexibility, ease of use, long term cost of ownership, and functionality.
Engineering processes require collaboration features, web functionality and flexibility SAP can’t support by design. Engineers who work with SAP-PLM will confirm.
Example (may sound trivial but really documents the flexibility issue): in early stages of a product development process, engineers may want to create functional product structures (Conceptual BOM’s) long before they even now the part numbers. This is possible in Aras but not in SAP. In order to create a BOM, all parts must be entered in the part management system in SAP. This is not simple and requires a full set of attributes like part number, name, material, etc, etc. Engineers just don’t work that way, for them, that’s a pain in the ass and creates a lot data nobody really needs.
As earlier you start to use PLM functionality in the lifecycle, as more problematic it gets with SAP. SAP is not able to deal with the "fuzzy" information.
SAP may be ok with simple products (not many BOM levels, not many Documents relations, not many other related information) and high volume. It is certainly not ideal for low volume, engineering to order products with high complexity coming from mecatronics, deep product structures.
The design of engineering processes is hard in SAP. If we show how easy it is in Aras to design a lifecycle or a workflow map, that answers a lot of questions (if you have the right audience).
And it’s the reality: engineering processes change all the time (new R&D center, new manufacturing partners, etc).
SAP PLM is not really a "feature" in the SAP solution suite. SAP-PLM is nothing else then a parallel installation from parts of SAP system (BOM’s, Materials, Documents) integrated with the SAP-ERP system.

how does PLM address software as a very important part of the end product?

Peter Schroer — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 20:22:56 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 4/3/2009 4:22:56 PM

[answer provded by Ken Amann of CIMdata ] PLM addresses the complete product definition -- mechanical, electronic, and software. Software modules and releases are considered part of the product definition and configuration, and are managed as such. Generally, development of software is handled by CASE tools, e.g., Clear Case. Once a build is completed and approved, the associated files and information are uploaded into the managing PLM system and the appropriate links to the mechanical and electronic component configuration are established. Changes to software (and the associated electronic and mechanical equipment) under configuration control must be approved before being incorporated. This enables designers, developers, manufacturing, and service personnel to access the product information and see the complete definition at any point in time. It also ensures that they work with (and don’t violate) the correct configuration of the version upon which they are working

How are additional solutions or extensions to existing solutions handled?

Peter Schroer — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:18:27 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 3/13/2009 4:18:27 PM

Aras Corp is unique within the PLM industry with application templates for product engineering, program management, quality planning, quality systems, manufacturing tooling, and other supply chain functions. If the necessary business processes are not addressed with existing solutions new solutions can be created quickly and easily using the Solution Studio to deliver new forms, workflows, and business logic that inherently integrate to existing solutions and provide a consistent look & feel for users

Describe the process of editing or adding a workflow to the system

Peter Schroer — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:18:00 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 3/13/2009 4:18:00 PM

Tailoring Aras Innovator is performed using the Administrator’s Solution Studio screens using Internet Explorer. Forms, Workflows, Lifecycles, Identity membership etc, are all administered using an intuitive drag-n-drop interface. The Aras enterprise solutions are provided with pre-configured workflow process maps. The customer is able to modify these maps or create entirely new processes using the GUI-based solution studio provided.

Can your system be setup to integrate into an ERP? Through what methods?

Peter Schroer — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:15:44 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 3/13/2009 4:15:44 PM

Aras Innovator is successfully integrated with numerous ERP systems. Aras Innovator is a native XML application and the preferred data exchange technology is XML sent as SOAP messages. Since many ERP systems are not yet XML-ready, interfaces are often built with direct ODBC database connections or ASCII file exchange. ERP and CAD systems that have robust API’s can be interfaced using the API functions. All of the .NET languages are available for creating custom interfaces, and Microsoft BizTalk Server enterprise application integration solution or other EAI solutions can be used to deliver the needed integrations.

What information can be restricted? Can it be defined by user, by group?

Peter Schroer — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:15:22 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 3/13/2009 4:15:22 PM

The Aras Innovator Identity Permissions security model is an Identity membership-based security scheme combined with a “need to know” object-level access list technology developed in partnership with Aras aerospace & defense industry customers. User’s are assigned to Identities (analogous to Groups) and all tasks, objects, forms etc. have a ‘need-to-know’ list of Identities that are allowed to access them for read, update, management and deletion.

Similar to ActiveDirectory, the Identity based security scheme is a membership manager. Each user is assigned membership into one of more groups (Identities). Those groups have a hierarchy of membership within other groups, inheriting the rights of the organizations of which they are members. Each business item (BOM, Drawing, Supplier, Workflow, Material Master, etc.) has a default access assigned to it upon creation. This default is then modified, as required, for each instance of the business item, throughout its lifecycle, to produce a true “need-to-know” list for each. Company business rules determine the level of security required; simple broad-brush, role based access or specific “need-to-know” lists of individuals for each Item/object. The power and flexibility of this model enables companies to include their suppliers and customers as real-time users within the PLM system with the confidence that visibility is restricted and intellectual property is protected.

How is security handled in your system?

Peter Schroer — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:14:35 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 3/13/2009 4:14:35 PM

Data security is enforced through the use of a single database logon and a single privileged user account with access to the file vault. The Aras Innovator application server acts as a proxy for all data and vault transactions, ensuring that all access to data is controlled by the Aras Innovator Identity Permissions control layer. MD5 is used to encrypt certain data fields before transmission (e.g. passwords). All users are assigned a unique username/password account (Identity) within Aras Innovator. These user accounts can be administered within the Aras Innovator administration screens or using LDAP.

Do you support automated actions? Based on what criteria?

Peter Schroer — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:14:06 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 3/13/2009 4:14:06 PM

Aras Innovator is able to automate certain actions such as preparing and sending data to an ERP system, automating the check-in of files released from a CAD application, or distributing a report. These automations are called “Methods” and they are triggered by “Events” on either the server or the client. Aras Innovator has a robust set of Events that the administrator can use as triggers for business process automations, including: approval of a document, modification of data, completion of a project assignment, or the receipt of a SOAP message from an external system.

What methods could be used to alert people of status changes, actions required etc.?

Peter Schroer — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:13:34 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 3/13/2009 4:13:34 PM

Assignment of action items, workflow activities, and overdue tasks is made through both email (supporting any SMTP compliant email system such as Exchange) and through an In-Basket within Aras Innovator. Users who do not have access to an Email account will be able to logon to Aras Innovator and view a real-time task list.

What method would be used for suppliers and outsourced manufacturers to access the system?

Peter Schroer — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:13:05 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 3/13/2009 4:13:05 PM

External users and suppliers will access the Aras Innovator with a web browser connecting to the server through either a secure Reverse-Proxy Server connection or a VPN connection.

What method would be used for project team members to access the system?

Peter Schroer — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:12:16 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 3/13/2009 4:12:16 PM

Internal users will access the Innovator server via their Web Browser

What is the licensing structure and cost of your system?

Peter Schroer — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:10:19 GMT

Current revision posted to FAQ by Peter Schroer on 3/13/2009 4:10:19 PM

Aras Innovator is openly distributed using the enterprise open source business model. Companies can download Aras Innovator from the Aras web site www.aras.com and deploy all functionality to unlimited end-users both internally and throughout the supply chain.

Community add-on solutions are also available that have been contributed by other companies and Aras partners. Most of these solutions are available open source, and a few are commercial solutions with software license or subscription fees. Enterprise Open Source -- openly distributed, flexible, scalable and robust business software solutions with commercial enterprise class support provided by a single for-profit company, in which both the source code for the software solutions and the ideas behind the implemented best practices are openly shared between like-minded enterprises.

Aras sells annual UNLIMITED Support Subscriptions, training services and consulting implementation projects. The enterprise class support includes live support, software patches and security updates. Aras can also provide consulting services ranging from PLM Planning Workshops and Quick Starts to a full turnkey implementation for either on-site deployment or a hosted solution.