What is Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)?

Product Lifecycle Management – or PLM – refers to the strategic management and integration of all information, processes, and decisions throughout the entire lifecycle of a product. From the initial idea through development, manufacturing, use, and finally to disposal or recycling, every step is systematically supported.

The goal of this management is to bring products to market more efficiently, cost-effectively, and sustainably throughout their entire lifecycle.

PLM is not just an IT system, but rather a company-wide concept that connects technical solutions, organizational processes, and entrepreneurial thinking. Companies that implement PLM consistently create a common data foundation for all stakeholders, from product development to production to customer service, providing advantages at every stage.

How does PLM work?

PLM consists of three central components:

1. Data Management

At the heart of PLM is the structured management of product data. This includes all kinds of various information related to the product. Modern PLM systems allow for central storage and ensure transparency, version control, and traceability, which is especially important in complex product developments involving multiple teams and locations.

2. Process Control

PLM creates clearly defined workflows and standards for collaboration across departments. Whether it’s change management, approval processes, or innovation cycles, automating and digitizing these processes helps minimize friction losses while also shortening time-to-market periods. Additionally, the quality and traceability of decisions made during the product process improve.

3. Collaboration and Integration

Another essential aspect is cross-departmental collaboration. PLM connects development, purchasing, production, marketing, and service through standardized systems and interfaces. Particularly in globally operating companies, this establishes a vital foundation for real-time collaboration.

PLM in Practice: Examples from Industry

The automotive industry is a classic example of successful PLM implementation. Vehicle manufacturers today work on models whose development cycles span several years and whose complexity involves thousands of individual parts. PLM systems enable engineers worldwide to work simultaneously on different components.

A central PLM system provides a unified data basis: every design change, every material adjustment, and every technological advancement is documented in real-time and is immediately accessible to all relevant stakeholders. This accelerates decision-making processes and reduces sources of error.

Especially during the transition to electromobility, the benefits of PLM become evident. The integration of new technologies, regulatory requirements, and supply chain needs places high demands on data and change management. PLM helps manage this complexity, whether through simulation-based development, digital prototyping, or by ensuring traceability of software versions in control devices.

Why is PLM so important and what value does it provide?

In a world where markets change quickly and product cycles become shorter, it is crucial to work agilely yet in a structured manner. PLM provides the necessary foundation for this. It helps companies manage complex product data, optimize internal processes, and make knowledge usable in the long term.

The added value is evident in various areas: faster market launches, lower development costs, higher product quality, better collaboration, and ultimately a stronger competitive edge. At the same time, PLM also supports sustainability goals by providing transparency over materials, production processes, and recycling.

Companies that establish PLM not just as an IT tool but as a strategic mindset secure long-term advantages in innovation management as well as in operational control.

Conclusion

From the experience we have gained in our everyday work over the past years, the PLM handbook has emerged in which we have documented our commitment to correct Product Lifecycle Management. For everyone who needs a guide or finds themselves stuck in a phase and unable to move forward. The desire to support others who are also creating their own products was correspondingly great after having gone through the experience oneself.

The four biggest takeaways:

1. At the beginning, formulate a clear goal to attract enthusiasts who can bring diverse perspectives to the idea.

2. Create a roadmap that communicates clear milestones to all stakeholders and continually motivates them to push forward with foresight in the process.

3. Develop an MVP. Today, MVPs can be realized with a variety of different tools, ensuring that you can touch, experience, and, above all, better understand the product.

4. Validate core functions, as without them no further steps can be initiated – the most critical features must communicate reliably.

Do you want to learn more about the handbook or read it yourself? Feel free to reach out to Fisnik Avdija (fisnik.avdija@carbyte.de) and Lucas von Herder (lucas.vonherder@carbyte.de)!