Overview
This lecture introduces Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), covering its definition, stages, evolution, benefits, key differences with Product Data Management (PDM), PLM software requirements, closed-loop manufacturing, and its relationship with Supply Chain Management (SCM) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM).
Introduction to Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)
- PLM is the process of managing a product through all its life stages, from concept to decline.
- It integrates all aspects of a product, including development, marketing, and retirement.
- The main goal is to streamline processes, create competitive and profitable products, and maximize product longevity.
Elements and Importance of PLM
- Key elements: information/communication technology (like PLM software), processes (skills, people, organizations), and methods (procedures, rules).
- PLM extends beyond design and manufacturing to include marketing and customer segmentation.
- Helps determine when to increase or decrease manufacturing based on market demand.
PLM vs. PDM
- PLM covers the entire product lifecycle, including retirement and decline.
- PDM (Product Data Management) is focused only on managing product data throughout its useful life.
- PDM is a subset of PLM; the two terms are not interchangeable.
Stages & Phases in Product Lifecycle and PLM
- Five phases of product development: concept & design, development, production & launch, service & support, retirement/decline.
- Four main stages of PLM: introduction, growth, maturity, decline.
- Example: Juice product lifecycle starts with launch, grows with increased types and packaging, matures with wide availability, then declines due to competition.
Evolution and Benefits of PLM
- PLM concept began in the 1930s, with modern developments since the 1950s.
- Originally aimed at engineering collaboration, now includes marketing, sales, service, and partner management.
- Benefits: increased revenue, reduced costs and errors, faster time to market, better product quality, single source of accountability.
PLM Software and Requirements
- PLM software manages all product data and processes from inception to disposal.
- Essential features: data sharing, change management, project management, integration capabilities.
- Software increases productivity, improves collaboration, and shortens time to market.
Closed Loop Manufacturing Cycle
- Traditional PLM is linear, producing waste at each stage.
- Closed loop manufacturing uses outputs from decline as inputs for new products, reducing environmental impact and costs.
Relationship: PLM, SCM, and CRM
- SCM (Supply Chain Management): oversees product flow from suppliers to customers, including manufacturing and distribution.
- CRM (Customer Relationship Management): manages interactions and support for customers after purchase.
- PLM encompasses both SCM (up to product delivery) and CRM (after purchase to retirement).
Key Terms & Definitions
- PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) — Managing a product's journey from conception to decline.
- PDM (Product Data Management) — Handling product data during its useful life.
- SCM (Supply Chain Management) — Overseeing production and distribution of products.
- CRM (Customer Relationship Management) — Managing customer interactions and post-sale support.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the stages of product development and the four main stages of the product lifecycle.
- Explore examples of PLM software and their must-have features.
- Reflect on the benefits and environmental impact of closed loop manufacturing.