PLM benefits for networked SMEs

PLM is universally recognized as a valid strategy to reduce time to market, increase process efficiency and reduce lifecycle cost. Despite the importance for industry to prove these emphasized competitive advantages, PLM achievable benefits still remain intangible. Their measurement is particularly difficult in case of networked enterprises where each of them is characterized by different organization, personnel skill, level of computerization, etc. Moving forward, this paper presents the results of a longterm study carried out on several Italian manufacturing companies, mainly small and medium sized, about the quantification of PLM benefits for collaboration. A structured approach is developed to assess the quality of a collaborative PLM implementation and its impact on real processes. Finally the cost-reduction achieved by the new system has been estimated on the basis of the companies’ hour cost. Results are remarkable and make evidence of great time and cost saving. This study shows a reliable experience on how PLM can successfully support companies to improve collaboration and hence to face the current economic crisis.