It is widely accepted that end-to-end product lifecycle management has become more complicated than before. Professionals face challenges like:
- No centralized visibility or data which makes it challenging to work
- There is no connected process across supply chain and hence it is difficult to work on a product, meeting customer requirement
- No proper version control of the design files, resulting in technical issues later
- Lack of proper collaboration across departments or teams
If we work on PLM process manually, using Excel, Word or just email, it will not yield desired results. However, buying and simply implementing a PLM software won’t solve the issues too. There are some practices which we have discussed below, which help in streamlining the PLM lifecycle with a proper connected process. This can solve all data visibility and collaboration issues.
- Identifying the purpose: As a manufacturer, it is important to understand the reasons for which PLM is implemented. PLM can be required for removing duplicate bills, centralizing product data, improving compliance and more. Once the goal is established, it becomes easier to create steps for implementing it.
- Converting current processes to a workflow: Assessing current processes makes it easier to understand how these can be converted to the PLM workflow. Professionals need to identify the gaps and the opportunities for improvement as they map the workflow with the PLM software.
- Assessing data quality: The source of data and how it establishes contact with other data, storing and retrieving data are some of the basic queries that should be addressed. Assessing the present data helps in evaluating its integrity and relevance. It should be made clear that any data used can be trusted, is meaningful and available.
- Educating employees and avoiding resistance: People are often not open to newer strategies and technology. It is important that employees are explained and trained about the change. Creating such awareness and educating them isn’t a simple one-day task but a whole process altogether to ensure everyone is aligned with the new, required standard of work. This is how a new method is successfully incorporated within an organization’s work culture.
- Determining roles and assigning responsibilities: Once employees have understood about the necessity and role of the software, the organization needs to assign responsibilities in order to make sure the PLM implementation is done successfully. Creating clear and distinguished roles with objectives will help the employees to prepare a plan with steps. They will monitor progress of this new task to keep track of the implementation and check if it is yielding desired results. They can answer and solve issues regarding this along with collaborating with other teams. This ensures that everyone understands the value and follow the steps explained.
- To provide training: While the SaaS-based systems can be easy to learn and implement, the organization still needs to create a proper path for training employees. It enables them to adapt, giving way to a smooth workflow and more efficiency. Once personalized training is given to the employees by delivering the same to laptop or other screen, it will enhance their skills. This will encourage them to stay engaged with the new process and accept the same.
Joyeeta Writes 