Many companies invest in digital engineering and model-based approaches to stay competitive. Organisations recognise the limitations of relying solely on documents when securely sharing critical product data. Documents are often generated from digital models, but when exchanged with external parties missing the link to their source, the document becomes an isolated piece of data.
The challenge lies in transitioning from a static, document-centric approach to a more dynamic, integrated model that supports seamless data exchange across the entire product lifecycle.
This blog explores how companies can secure their product data supply chain by moving beyond documents. The suggested approach will enable them to benefit from established digital models, manage their digital thread, and gain a holistic view of their data across their product data supply chain.
The evolution of document sharing
Traditional file-based exchange of documents has long been the standard in many industries. However, this method is often cumbersome, prone to errors, and lacks the flexibility required in today’s fast-paced environment. The shift from simple file-based exchanges to more sophisticated methods of data management can be visualised as a staircase, with each step representing a significant improvement in how product data is handled:
- File-based exchange: The most basic form of data exchange, where documents are shared as files with little control over how they are used or updated. This method often leads to confusion and inefficiencies, as multiple versions of documents may exist, and tracking changes can be difficult.
- Controlled document sharing: The next step involves implementing controls to manage document revisions. This ensures that the intended version of a document is used and shared, reducing the risk of errors and miscommunication. However, while this approach improves accuracy, it still treats documents as isolated entities, disconnected from the broader context of the product lifecycle.
- Contextualised document sharing: At this stage, documents are not only controlled but also contextualised within the broader framework of the product lifecycle. This means that the document’s role and relevance are understood in relation to the product it pertains to. For example, understanding where and how a document is used within the product’s development process allows for more informed decision-making and better management of the data.
- Controlled product sharing: The final step in this evolution is moving away from document-centric approaches altogether. Instead, data is managed in a fully digital and object-oriented manner, where information is directly linked to the product it describes. This approach provides a more holistic view of the product data, allowing for better integration, validation, and control of information across the entire product lifecycle.
Managing the Digital Thread
One of the key benefits of moving beyond documents is the ability to manage the digital thread more effectively. The digital thread is the seamless flow of data that connects every phase of the product lifecycle, from design to manufacturing and even into maintenance and disposal. By consolidating and linking data from multiple sources, businesses can create a comprehensive view of the product that spans its entire lifecycle.
This interconnected data allows for real-time updates and more accurate tracking of changes, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the product data. It also helps in identifying and resolving data quality issues that may arise when linking data from different sources.
Securing your product data
In a digital environment, data security becomes paramount. Access to product data must be carefully controlled to prevent unauthorised access and ensure that sensitive information is protected. This is particularly important as businesses increasingly rely on digital collaboration tools that involve multiple stakeholders, including suppliers, manufacturers, and customers.
By moving beyond documents and embracing a more integrated approach to data management, businesses can implement more robust security measures that protect their product data throughout its lifecycle.
The role of ShareAspace in moving beyond documents
Eurostep’s ShareAspace platform is designed to help businesses achieve these goals by providing a standardised information model that covers the full lifecycle of a product. This model ensures a common understanding of product data across different stakeholders, reducing the risk of miscommunication and ensuring that data can be easily expanded or further developed as needed.
Based on the PLCS standard, ShareAspace also enables the consolidation and linking of data from multiple sources, improving data integration and validation. This not only helps in maintaining data quality but also in exposing any underlying issues that may need to be addressed.
Finally, ShareAspace provides the tools needed to secure access to product data, ensuring that only authorised individuals can view or modify the information. This is crucial for protecting intellectual property and maintaining the integrity of the product data supply chain.
Embrace the future of product data management
The shift from document-centric to data-centric approaches in managing product information is not just a trend—it’s a necessity for businesses looking to stay competitive in today’s digital world. By moving beyond documents, managing your digital thread, and securing your product data, you can unlock new efficiencies, reduce risks, and gain a holistic view of your product lifecycle.
Eurostep’s ShareAspace platform is at the forefront of this transformation, providing the tools and capabilities needed to navigate this complex landscape. It’s time to move beyond documents and embrace a future where data is at the heart of your product strategy. Deep dive into our latest webinar on-demand to learn more about securing your product data supply chain and moving beyond documents.
