PLM Implementation Challenges

Dear Mr Amann, PLM solution implementation model may vary depending on the business type, company size and so on. What do you consider the state-of-the-art on a PLM solution implementation? Which are the main issues to be taken in to account before implementation? Thank you.

For any successful PLM implementation the first step is to understand and define an overall PLM strategy that is linked to your business objectives. Define the PLM objectives to be achieved and the metrics that will be used to measure progress and success (a limited number of objectives linked to the business objectives. Establish the scope of the implementation (note that the implementation may only address a part of the overall strategy), budget and project champion (project and executive management). With a clear set of objectives (tied to the business) established you can then define the requirements for the solution, establish the project team, evaluate the potential solutions and make a selection based on the defined requirements. Primary issues that must be addressed include:

• What are the objectives of doing the implementation
  
• How do they benefit the business and the implementing organizations
  
• What is the value to be achieved and the ROI
  
• Which executive will be the champion/owner of the project (must have executive support)
  
• What is the scope and budget
  
• Who will be the team members assigned to support the implementation (it needs to be a priority for them -- can't do it part time)
  
• What are the business requirements that must be addressed by the implementation
  
• What cultural change will need to be addressed
  
• Have a methodology for evaluation and measurement that will be followed
  
• Don't allow scope creep