Introduction
Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) is a complex process that becomes even more intricate when it involves various stakeholders like OEMs, suppliers, and design partners. As organizations move toward globally interconnected networks, the digital thread emerges as an indispensable tool in PLM collaboration. This article explores the role of a digital thread in enhancing PLM processes, breaking down data silos, and enabling agile product development.
What is a Digital Thread?
In the context of PLM, a digital thread serves as a communication backbone, linking multiple digital twins and providing an integrated flow of product data throughout its lifecycle. At Eurostep, we define a digital thread as a coherent set of integrated product information enriched by data from diverse domains and disciplines. This thread extends beyond the internal functions of an organization, incorporating suppliers, partners, and customers across the global value network.
Why is a Digital Thread important?
Network-centric approach
Companies are increasingly adopting a network-centric approach that involves partners, suppliers, and customers. This model provides benefits like global market access, skill availability, and expedited time-to-market. In such an environment, a digital thread plays a pivotal role by ensuring that every stakeholder has access to the latest, most accurate product data.
Data integrity and decision making
Data integrity is a cornerstone of effective PLM collaboration. A digital thread provides complete traceability of data changes and an integrated, transparent view of business-critical information. This enhances the quality and agility of decision-making processes, thereby contributing to a more efficient product development cycle.
How a Digital Thread Enhances PLM Collaboration
Breaking down silos
Traditional PLM processes often operate within the siloed confines of an organization. A digital thread transcends these boundaries to include a broader array of stakeholders, making the PLM process more robust and comprehensive.
Real-time collaboration
Digital threads enable real-time updates and insights, allowing for seamless communication between stakeholders regardless of geographical location or time zones. This capability is especially crucial when rapid iterations or quick decision-making is required.
Standards-based approach
By utilizing standards like PLCS (Product Life Cycle Support), a digital thread ensures seamless interoperability among different software solutions and processes. This is particularly useful in sectors like Defence & Aerospace, Manufacturing, and AEC & Plant, which often rely on a plethora of tools and platforms.
Implementing a Digital Thread using PLCS
PLCS is an ISO standard designed to support the maintenance and lifecycle management of complex products. Eurostep pioneered the PLCS data model, envisioning the functionalities of a digital thread even before the term gained widespread recognition. Implementing a digital thread using PLCS adds immediate capabilities and introduces new functionalities to existing software and processes, making it a robust foundation for a resilient and functional digital thread.
Conclusion
The digital thread is more than just a conduit for data; it’s the central nervous system of PLM collaboration. It provides a structured yet flexible framework for connecting disparate data sources, allowing for efficient, secure, and effective collaboration across the global value network. As companies increasingly shift toward a network-centric organizational model, the role of a digital thread in PLM collaboration becomes not just beneficial but essential for maintaining competitive advantage in today’s fast-paced industrial landscape.
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