Managing Automation :: Technology Solutions for Progressive Manufacturers Sign in or register  |  Advertisers & Press  |  List Product  |   Subscribe to MA Magazine  |  Newsletters  |   My Profile
Ask the Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) Expert: Scheduling Assistance
Ask the Expert

PLM Product Pluses, Minuses

Asked on Nov 17 2006 12:17:05:000PM

Q

I would like to know good sources that expose the characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of the different PLM software that are available such as Windchill, Smarteam and Teamcentre. I would really appreciate your help and look forward to hearing from you.

A. C. S.,
AThe capabilities, scope and functionality of the PLM vendors (e.g., Dassault Systèmes, UGS, PTC, etc.) change frequently as each vendor continually updates and enhances their product suite.

Further, the characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of each is dependent on the industry in which you do business and the specifics of your company's business model and strategy. Because of these factors, it is not practical to try and provide generic reviews and comparisons. The best sources of information are the industry consultants that continually review the vendors and implementation of their products in a variety of industries.

Additionally, companies that implement multiple vendor solutions (not an implementor aligned or partnered with a single vendor) also have a good understanding of strengths and weaknesses of the vendors.

Editor's Note: You might also want compare the aforementioned products using our Comparison Tool. Click the "Match" and/or "specify your custom feature requirements" buttons and then click PLM to rate these requirements according to your business need. You will then be able to compare and contrast different product offerings based on those requirements.

Meet the expert

Kenneth B. Amann

Director of Research, CIMdata Inc

A graduate of Georgia Tech, Mr. Amann has 35 years of experience researching and working with Product Lifecycle Management and Product Data Management architectures, as well as developing computer-based engineering applications and document / information management systems. Mr. Amann has held senior positions in PLM marketing, development, and consulting. His experience includes evaluating corporate engineering and manufacturing operations, managing PLM programs, recommending collaborative and concurrent engineering and product information management solutions, implementing PLM solutions, and developing and evaluating requests for proposals. Prior to joining CIMdata, Mr. Amann was the managing director for PricewaterhouseCoopers' Technology Leadership Group, where he conducted research into and evaluated emerging PLM technologies and vendor products based on these technologies.
Ask your question

Please sign in or registerto ask your question now. As a registered member of Managing Automation, you'll have access to all of our industry experts, the entire Research library and tools such as the Custom Software Comparison and Business Assessment Tool.