Finding the right fit from a range of PLM systems

Introduction

In the first article of this buyer's guide, research analyst Jim Brown jokes that "if you ask five consultants for their definition of PLM, you'll get six different answers." At the risk of being a joke killer, we have made it our goal with this buyer's guide to help clarify what product lifecycle management (PLM) is -- and isn't -- and to show which software from a range of PLM systems is right for your enterprise.

Knowing what PLM is and what PLM software does is only the first step. Understanding when and in what situations PLM systems are implemented is important in selecting the right tool. The second feature in this guide shows how to diagnose product lifecycle issues and make a prognosis. With most product development and design problems, PLM tools can be the treatment.

If PLM tools indeed cure what ails your product lifecycle, then figuring out which software is the right treatment for you is the next step. The third article in this buyer's guide discusses the key features to consider when selecting a PLM tool to implement. Beginning with looking inward at your enterprise and ending with a vendor assessment is a surefire way to ensure that your organization is getting the right software that matches its demographics, product, industry, and IT and manufacturing needs.

In part four, we present several PLM systems available in the market today. Going beyond that, though, Brown provides analysis into which PLM tool fits which business scenario best. To provide further coverage, in part five, TechTarget presents in-depth looks at each of the mentioned PLM systems. All of this is designed to help you choose the right PLM tools for your enterprise, because misunderstanding the software and picking the wrong PLM system is no joking matter. 

1What is?-

Looking at PLM and how PLM software works

Learn what PLM is and how PLM systems can help enterprises ideate, design, develop and release products.

2Do I need?-

PLM software use cases: when and where PLM tools can help

See what issues are affecting organizations' product lifecycle and which ones can be corrected by PLM systems.

3How to buy-

Key features and initiatives to consider when buying PLM tools

Knowing the ins and outs of your enterprise is one of the first steps to take when looking at PLM systems. After looking internally, your search for the important PLM software features and vendor functions will be much easier.

4Which should I buy?-

Which PLM tool is right for you?

Identifying a PLM vendor is easy enough, but making sure their PLM software is the right software for your organization is a difficult undertaking. Brown tackles the top PLM systems and presents analysis into which ones work best in certain business scenarios.

5Top product overviews-

Today's PLM software market leaders

PLM systems are essential for any company looking to establish or improve a product lifecycle. TechTarget presents in-depth looks at the top PLM products offered today.