Often PLM starts with one group in a corporation, such as engineering. While this can be a great way to get started, when properly implemented, PLM should be accessible to everyone in the company. The real benefits and ROI come from providing access to 1,000s of users across the company and the extended supply chain.
When everyone has access to the latest information; whether that be change requests, drawings, new HR documents or the ability to review a quality report on supplier goods, the focus shifts from chasing paper and rework, to true transformation and innovation.
Unfortunately, many companies don't think about the true PLM license costs when they are building their initial budget. What's affordable for a single department may not be affordable enterprise-wide.
All too often companies realize too late that they can't give everyone across the company and throughout the supply chain access to the PLM system they've rolled out in engineering. The hard costs of named user and module licenses often outweigh the softer costs or projected savings from extending PLM company-wide.
If you can't provide access to PLM to everyone in your workflows, maybe it's time to reevaluate your PLM system.
The fact is that technology is advancing faster than ever. The best system 5 or 10 years ago is probably not the best answer today. Businesses today need to keep an open mind and be prepared to switch systems if that’s what it takes to be successful. And it doesn't have to be a hard switch. In many cases, you can continue using your current system and integrate it into your next PLM solution. At least you can with Aras.
Learn more about our technology and how we can help your PLM initiative grow