Model-Based Definition

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Model-Based Definition

The stakeholders of PLM systems expect accurate product documentation.  Such is not always reality.  The dire results of inaccurate product documentation can affect all levels of stakeholders’ activity: strategic, tactical and operational, and maybe all levels at once.  Excessive scrap and rework may trigger excessive costs and delayed shipments. Perhaps, even loss of customers.  Fortunately, in the realm of 3D CAD models and 2D drawings, Model-Based Definition (MBD) is an evolving solution for generating information that is clear, unambiguous and repeatable for all stakeholders in a single source over the lifecycle of a product.

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The Science & Business of Engineering

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The Science & Business of Engineering

Peter Schroer, the Aras CEO and Founder, recently penned a compelling article that contrasts the irony that exists for many manufacturers today. He notes that sophisticated design technologies are used for 3D CAD, analysis and simulation, and DMU (digital mock-up) work. Yet, to manage the resulting data, manual steps, paper, email, Excel, Lotus Notes, DropBox, FTP, and homegrown systems are used.He refers to these design technologies as the "science of engineering." He further   states, "Leaving other critical processes, including software, electronics, requirements, process planning, technical publications and quality – the "business of engineering" –  is disconnected and underserved." It's the contrast between the "science of engineering and the "business of engineering."

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Self-Serve Reporting Module

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Self-Serve Reporting Module

An Interview with Lopa Subramanian, Aras Product Manager

Martin: Before we start, give us a quick background of your experience and what you are responsible for today.

Lopa: I’m a mechanical engineer by education, and I have been in PLM and the enterprise software space for my whole career.  I started in services with SDRC Metaphase and then moved to Aspect Development/i2 in their supplier relationship management area. I gained great experience in both services and presales working with utility companies, high-tech, apparel, retail, industrial and the auto industry.  Prior to joining Aras, I spent a number of years at Siemens PLM working with Teamcenter. 

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Don’t Mind the Engine Light

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Don’t Mind the Engine Light

Autodesk Vault was used for the CAD workgroup.  Once designs were released, renditions were manually created and then loaded into SharePoint.  The bills we exported to a spreadsheet and manually entered into their ERP solution.  Purchasing would go to SharePoint to access and print the rendered drawings.  These would be associated to purchase orders.

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The Business-Case for PLM: How to Measure Value

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The Business-Case for PLM: How to Measure Value

Do you have P&L responsibilities or hope to have someday?  Then if PLM is not part of your strategy, you may want to reconsider.  PLM is just as vital as your ERP solution and some will argue that it is the most important aspect for any engineering/manufacturing business.

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Recent Interview with Dick Bourke, Industry Analyst and Iconic Figure in Industry - June 2, 2015

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Recent Interview with Dick Bourke, Industry Analyst and Iconic Figure in Industry - June 2, 2015

If we look at ERP and PLM, we can see some parallels in their development and maturity.  Before ERP there was MRP, or material requirements planning, which was strictly the core modules necessary to plan material requirements, quantities, inventories and due dates.  Properly structured bill of materials for manufacturing planning purposes or what’s now called the M-Bomb were critical along with inventory accuracy.  Then, as a broader set of applications began to emerge, the name ERP or enterprise resource planning took hold.  This now includes CRM, financials, HR, and many other applications meant to run the business. 

 

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