As we close the chapter on 2024, it’s time to reflect on some of the most engaging discussions that resonated with my audience about PLM software, product data management, transformation of business processes and more specifically about product development process organization. Topics related to PLM solutions and business systems are becoming very popular these days. Connected topics such as document management, quality management and service lifecycle management are becoming critical too. Companies are focusing on how to support production process, data sharing and modern PLM software. Businesses are looking how to optimize design and engineering phase, mitigate risks of supply chain collaboration and how to support the entire product lifecycle holistically. How to make engineering data sharing in the entire organization using modern PLM software and new PLM technologies are here too.
I’m brining these 10 topics that sparked meaningful feedback, comments, and further conversations. Below, I’ve summarized the year’s key themes, alongside links to the original articles and LinkedIn discussions.
Discussion Topics from 2024
Most of conversations about PLM these days are happening on LinkedIn. I found the LinkedIn community brings a lot of engagement. However, as part of my Beyond PLM 2025 goals, I do plan to reestablished email subscription and email sharing capabilities.
Here are my top 5 favorite themes from PLM discussions:
- PLM strategy and education
- Paradigm shift in PLM concepts, implementations, and approaches
- Document to data shift
- AI and digital transformation
- Graphs models and graph databases
Here are list of top 10 Beyond PLM articles and links to LinkedIn discussions.
PDM vs. PLM: From File Management to Connected Data, Product Lifecycle, and Product Models
Explores the evolution from basic file management in PDM systems to the connected, data-driven models of PLM. Highlights the importance of transitioning to comprehensive product lifecycle management.Link to the article PDM vs. PLM: From File Management to Connected Data, Product Lifecycle, and Product Models Join the conversation on LinkedIn post.
Rethinking Change Management (Part 1, Part 2, Part 4, and Part 4)
This is a series of article I wrote in December about how to reimagine change management in PLM. The articles triggered a significant interest and discussion (both online and offline). Links to the last article (Part 4), which includes links to Part 1-3 is here – Rethinking Change Management Part 4 (links to Part 1, 2, 3 are inside). Join the conversation on LinkedIn post.
3 Benefits of Using Graph-Based Digital Thread Product Models for PLM-ERP Integrations
Discusses how graph-based data models enhance PLM-ERP integration, emphasizing flexibility, scalability, and better data visualization.3 Benefits of Using Graph-Based Digital Thread Product Model for PLM-ERP Integrations. Join the conversation on LinkedIn post.
Breaking Free from Monolithic PLM: Building an Agile Strategy with Focused Services
Advocates for breaking down traditional PLM systems into agile, service-focused architectures to improve adaptability and innovation.Breaking Free from Monolithic PLM: Building an Agile Strategy with Focused Services. Join the conversation on LinkedIn post.
How to Resolve BOM Types Discourse
Tackles ongoing challenges in defining and managing BOM types, proposing practical solutions to streamline manufacturing and supply chain operations.How to Resolve BOM Types Discourse? Join the conversation on LinkedIn post.
What I Learned at Autodesk University 2024 About the Future of Design and Manufacturing
Shares insights from Autodesk University 2024, focusing on advancements in design, manufacturing, and data management technologies.What I Learned at Autodesk University 2024 About the Future of Design and Manufacturing. Join the conversation on LinkedIn post.
PLM and MBOM: Supply Chain Debates and Future Solution Architecture
Examines how PLM and MBOM intersect in supply chain management, presenting future-ready architectural solutions for seamless integration.PLM and MBOM: Supply Chain Debates and Future Solution Architecture. Join the conversation on LinkedIn post.
Winning PLM Arguments and Crafting a Successful PLM Strategy for Your Organization
Offers guidance on building a compelling case for PLM adoption and creating strategies tailored to organizational goals.Winning PLM Arguments and Crafting a Successful PLM Strategy for Your Organization. Join the conversation on LinkedIn post.
Redefining the Approach to PLM Implementation: A Strategy Beyond Traditional PLM
Suggests innovative approaches to PLM implementation, moving away from outdated methodologies and embracing modern, adaptable solutions.Redefining the Approach to PLM Implementation: A Strategy Beyond Traditional PLM. Join the conversation on LinkedIn post.
How to Connect Multiple ERP, PLM, CRM, and Other Enterprise Systems in 2024
Highlights methods for achieving seamless integration across enterprise systems to enable a unified digital thread.How to Connect Multiple ERP, PLM, CRM and Other Enterprise Systems in 2024. Join the conversation on LinkedIn post.
What is my conclusion?
I want to thank everyone who joined me in these discussions, but not only. I’m grateful to everyone who found my Beyond PLM discussions useful for your business and development.
PLM is changing and evolving. The discussions around it are becoming increasingly dynamic. The themes of PLM strategy and education, paradigm shifts in implementation, the transition from documents to data, AI-driven transformation, and the adoption of graph-based models are reshaping the industry.
These discussions highlight the need for agile strategies, connected data models, and innovative approaches to implementation. While LinkedIn fosters an interactive community, I aim to broaden the conversation through Beyond PLM in 2025 by reestablishing email subscriptions and sharing capabilities, creating a more versatile platform for exploring these pivotal topics.
I’m excited and looking forward to 2025. Let me know what topics you think important for 2025 and I’d love to share my thoughts…
Best, Oleg
Disclaimer: I’m the co-founder and CEO of OpenBOM, a digital-thread platform providing cloud-native PDM, PLM, and ERP capabilities. With extensive experience in federated CAD-PDM and PLM architecture, I’m advocates for agile, open product models and cloud technologies in manufacturing. My opinion can be unintentionally biased.
