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Best Product Data Management (PDM) Software

Daniel Rivera
DR
Researched and written by Daniel Rivera

Product data management (PDM) software manages product data such as CAD models and manufacturing instructions. PDM is mostly used by manufacturing companies to control product data from design to production. This type of software is beneficial for designers creating the initial specifications of a new product and production managers following manufacturing instructions.

PDM can be delivered separately or as a part of a PLM software solution. PDM should not be confused with product information management (PIM) software, which is used mostly by retailers to manage information on products after they are manufactured.

To qualify for inclusion in the Product Data Management category, a product must:

Deliver a single repository for all types of product data
Manage various kinds of data such as 3D models or digital content
Track data ownership, version control, and release status
Create technical specifications to manufacture and maintain products
Provide a full audit trail of all changes made to product information
Facilitate collaboration between internal and external teams

Best Product Data Management (PDM) Software At A Glance

Best for Small Businesses:
Onshape
Onshape
Best for Mid-Market:
Teamcenter
Teamcenter
Best for Enterprise:
Teamcenter
Teamcenter
Highest User Satisfaction:
OpenBOM
OpenBOM
Best Free Software:
OpenBOM
OpenBOM
Show LessShow More
Best for Enterprise:
Teamcenter
Teamcenter
Highest User Satisfaction:
OpenBOM
OpenBOM
Best Free Software:
OpenBOM
OpenBOM

G2 takes pride in showing unbiased reviews on user satisfaction in our ratings and reports. We do not allow paid placements in any of our ratings, rankings, or reports. Learn about our scoring methodologies.

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59 Listings in Product Data Management (PDM) Available
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Teamcenter
By Siemens Digital Industries Software
(543)4.3 out of 5
Optimized for quick response
4th Easiest To Use in Product Data Management (PDM) software
Save to My Lists
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Teamcenter® software is a modern, adaptable product lifecycle management (PLM) system designed to help organizations manage the entire lifecycle of a product from inception, through engineering design

    Users
    • Design Engineer
    • Account Manager
    Industries
    • Automotive
    • Aviation & Aerospace
    Market Segment
    • 48% Enterprise
    • 32% Mid-Market
    User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
    • Teamcenter is a product lifecycle management software that centralizes data about product information like design, documents, process, and material related information for various industries.
    • Reviewers like Teamcenter's ability to manage, store, and retrieve product-related data efficiently, its compatibility with different CAD files, and its collaborative nature that allows cross-functional teams to work in real time on product designs and decisions.
    • Users reported that Teamcenter can be slow when working with large files or complex projects, its interface is not very modern, and it requires high-performance computers to run efficiently.
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Teamcenter Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    105
    Data Management
    71
    Integrations
    61
    Product Lifecycle Management
    53
    Features
    51
    Cons
    Learning Curve
    41
    Slow Performance
    41
    Complexity
    35
    Poor Interface Design
    35
    Difficult Usability
    30
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Teamcenter features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    9.0
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    8.9
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    7.7
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    8.8
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Siemens Digital Industries Software
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    1980
    HQ Location
    Plano, Texas
    Twitter
    @siemenssoftware
    36,937 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    19,953 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Teamcenter® software is a modern, adaptable product lifecycle management (PLM) system designed to help organizations manage the entire lifecycle of a product from inception, through engineering design

Users
  • Design Engineer
  • Account Manager
Industries
  • Automotive
  • Aviation & Aerospace
Market Segment
  • 48% Enterprise
  • 32% Mid-Market
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
  • Teamcenter is a product lifecycle management software that centralizes data about product information like design, documents, process, and material related information for various industries.
  • Reviewers like Teamcenter's ability to manage, store, and retrieve product-related data efficiently, its compatibility with different CAD files, and its collaborative nature that allows cross-functional teams to work in real time on product designs and decisions.
  • Users reported that Teamcenter can be slow when working with large files or complex projects, its interface is not very modern, and it requires high-performance computers to run efficiently.
Teamcenter Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
105
Data Management
71
Integrations
61
Product Lifecycle Management
53
Features
51
Cons
Learning Curve
41
Slow Performance
41
Complexity
35
Poor Interface Design
35
Difficult Usability
30
Teamcenter features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
9.0
Repository
Average: 8.3
8.9
Workflows
Average: 8.5
7.7
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
8.8
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
Siemens Digital Industries Software
Company Website
Year Founded
1980
HQ Location
Plano, Texas
Twitter
@siemenssoftware
36,937 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
19,953 employees on LinkedIn®
Onshape
By PTC
(662)4.7 out of 5
2nd Easiest To Use in Product Data Management (PDM) software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:$1,500.00
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Onshape by PTC is the leading cloud-native CAD & PDM software that runs on any device, anywhere-requiring zero IT.​ Only Onshape:​ - Eliminates CAD crashes and never loses data​ - Includes built-

    Users
    • Owner
    • Mechanical Engineer
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    • Design
    Market Segment
    • 79% Small-Business
    • 17% Mid-Market
    User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
    • Onshape is a cloud-based CAD system that allows users to work from any location, collaborate on the same part or assembly, and integrate with various online analysis tools.
    • Users like the accessibility of Onshape, its ability to facilitate real-time collaboration, the integrated parts management, and the fact that it requires no bulky local installation or special workstations.
    • Users experienced issues with the drawing environment being inconsistent, concerns about overall cloud security, limitations in dimensioning and annotation in drawings, and dependency on internet for working.
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Onshape Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    92
    Online Accessibility
    61
    Cloud Services
    58
    Collaboration
    53
    Features
    53
    Cons
    Missing Features
    65
    Lack of Features
    35
    Internet Dependency
    25
    Limited CAD Features
    25
    Limited Features
    23
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Onshape features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    9.1
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    8.4
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    9.0
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    8.1
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    PTC
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    1985
    HQ Location
    Boston, Massachusetts
    Twitter
    @PTC
    38,536 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    8,137 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Onshape by PTC is the leading cloud-native CAD & PDM software that runs on any device, anywhere-requiring zero IT.​ Only Onshape:​ - Eliminates CAD crashes and never loses data​ - Includes built-

Users
  • Owner
  • Mechanical Engineer
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
  • Design
Market Segment
  • 79% Small-Business
  • 17% Mid-Market
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
  • Onshape is a cloud-based CAD system that allows users to work from any location, collaborate on the same part or assembly, and integrate with various online analysis tools.
  • Users like the accessibility of Onshape, its ability to facilitate real-time collaboration, the integrated parts management, and the fact that it requires no bulky local installation or special workstations.
  • Users experienced issues with the drawing environment being inconsistent, concerns about overall cloud security, limitations in dimensioning and annotation in drawings, and dependency on internet for working.
Onshape Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
92
Online Accessibility
61
Cloud Services
58
Collaboration
53
Features
53
Cons
Missing Features
65
Lack of Features
35
Internet Dependency
25
Limited CAD Features
25
Limited Features
23
Onshape features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
9.1
Repository
Average: 8.3
8.4
Workflows
Average: 8.5
9.0
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
8.1
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
PTC
Company Website
Year Founded
1985
HQ Location
Boston, Massachusetts
Twitter
@PTC
38,536 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
8,137 employees on LinkedIn®

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OpenBOM
By OpenBOM(Newman Cloud Inc)
(650)4.2 out of 5
6th Easiest To Use in Product Data Management (PDM) software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:Free
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    OpenBOM is a Collaborative Workspace platform (SaaS) specifically designed for engineering teams and manufacturing companies. It provides an integrated suite of PDM, PLM, and ERP functionalities, seam

    Users
    • Mechanical Engineer
    • Engineer
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    • Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing
    Market Segment
    • 77% Small-Business
    • 19% Mid-Market
    User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
    • OpenBOM is a product data management tool that allows teams to share files, keep them organized, and provide details about each product.
    • Reviewers frequently mention the ease of use, the ability to easily share and organize files, and the high number of CAD integrations as standout features of OpenBOM.
    • Reviewers experienced issues with the platform's user interface, finding it cluttered and unintuitive, and also reported problems with file deletion and system glitches.
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • OpenBOM Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    171
    BOM Management
    92
    CAD Integration
    64
    Features
    49
    Intuitive
    48
    Cons
    Learning Curve
    53
    Missing Features
    35
    BOM Management
    31
    Data Management
    25
    Poor Interface Design
    22
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • OpenBOM features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.0
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    7.7
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    8.0
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    7.9
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    OpenBOM(Newman Cloud Inc)
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    2016
    HQ Location
    Boston, MA
    Twitter
    @openbom
    2,639 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    12 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

OpenBOM is a Collaborative Workspace platform (SaaS) specifically designed for engineering teams and manufacturing companies. It provides an integrated suite of PDM, PLM, and ERP functionalities, seam

Users
  • Mechanical Engineer
  • Engineer
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
  • Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing
Market Segment
  • 77% Small-Business
  • 19% Mid-Market
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
  • OpenBOM is a product data management tool that allows teams to share files, keep them organized, and provide details about each product.
  • Reviewers frequently mention the ease of use, the ability to easily share and organize files, and the high number of CAD integrations as standout features of OpenBOM.
  • Reviewers experienced issues with the platform's user interface, finding it cluttered and unintuitive, and also reported problems with file deletion and system glitches.
OpenBOM Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
171
BOM Management
92
CAD Integration
64
Features
49
Intuitive
48
Cons
Learning Curve
53
Missing Features
35
BOM Management
31
Data Management
25
Poor Interface Design
22
OpenBOM features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.0
Repository
Average: 8.3
7.7
Workflows
Average: 8.5
8.0
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
7.9
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
OpenBOM(Newman Cloud Inc)
Company Website
Year Founded
2016
HQ Location
Boston, MA
Twitter
@openbom
2,639 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
12 employees on LinkedIn®
Altium 365
By Altium
(358)4.6 out of 5
1st Easiest To Use in Product Data Management (PDM) software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:Contact Us
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Altium 365® is the electronics product design platform that unites PCB design, MCAD, data management, and teamwork.

    Users
    • Electrical Engineer
    • Student
    Industries
    • Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing
    • Automotive
    Market Segment
    • 62% Small-Business
    • 26% Mid-Market
    User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
    • Altium 365 is a cloud-based platform for designing the schematic and PCB of communication module products, allowing for quick modifications and exports of the PCB.
    • Reviewers like the seamless integration with Altium Designer, the ability for real-time collaboration, and the extensive component library that Altium 365 offers.
    • Reviewers mentioned that Altium 365 can be resource-intensive, requiring high-performance hardware and a stable internet connection, and its subscription model may be expensive for smaller teams or individual users.
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Altium 365 Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Collaboration
    100
    Ease of Use
    85
    Sharing
    85
    Features
    75
    Cloud Services
    55
    Cons
    Learning Curve
    32
    Expensive
    29
    Missing Features
    26
    Slow Performance
    24
    Complex Interface
    23
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Altium 365 features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.5
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    8.1
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    8.3
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    8.0
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Altium
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    1985
    HQ Location
    La Jolla, CA
    Twitter
    @altium
    9,327 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    1,195 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Altium 365® is the electronics product design platform that unites PCB design, MCAD, data management, and teamwork.

Users
  • Electrical Engineer
  • Student
Industries
  • Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing
  • Automotive
Market Segment
  • 62% Small-Business
  • 26% Mid-Market
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
  • Altium 365 is a cloud-based platform for designing the schematic and PCB of communication module products, allowing for quick modifications and exports of the PCB.
  • Reviewers like the seamless integration with Altium Designer, the ability for real-time collaboration, and the extensive component library that Altium 365 offers.
  • Reviewers mentioned that Altium 365 can be resource-intensive, requiring high-performance hardware and a stable internet connection, and its subscription model may be expensive for smaller teams or individual users.
Altium 365 Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Collaboration
100
Ease of Use
85
Sharing
85
Features
75
Cloud Services
55
Cons
Learning Curve
32
Expensive
29
Missing Features
26
Slow Performance
24
Complex Interface
23
Altium 365 features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.5
Repository
Average: 8.3
8.1
Workflows
Average: 8.5
8.3
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
8.0
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
Altium
Company Website
Year Founded
1985
HQ Location
La Jolla, CA
Twitter
@altium
9,327 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
1,195 employees on LinkedIn®
PTC Windchill
By PTC
(94)4.0 out of 5
9th Easiest To Use in Product Data Management (PDM) software
Save to My Lists
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    PTC's Market Leading PLM Solution, Windchill, is an application suite that manages all aspects of the product development lifecycle—from concept through service and retirement—by enabling a digital th

    Users
    • Section Engineer
    • Design Engineer
    Industries
    • Automotive
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    Market Segment
    • 59% Enterprise
    • 29% Mid-Market
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • PTC Windchill Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    4
    CAD Integration
    2
    Easy Access
    2
    Cloud Storage
    1
    Collaboration
    1
    Cons
    Bug Issues
    1
    Difficult Deletion
    1
    Expensive
    1
    File Management
    1
    Slow Performance
    1
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • PTC Windchill features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.8
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    9.6
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    7.5
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    8.7
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    PTC
    Year Founded
    1985
    HQ Location
    Boston, Massachusetts
    Twitter
    @PTC
    38,536 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    8,137 employees on LinkedIn®
    Ownership
    NASDAQ: PTC
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

PTC's Market Leading PLM Solution, Windchill, is an application suite that manages all aspects of the product development lifecycle—from concept through service and retirement—by enabling a digital th

Users
  • Section Engineer
  • Design Engineer
Industries
  • Automotive
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
Market Segment
  • 59% Enterprise
  • 29% Mid-Market
PTC Windchill Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
4
CAD Integration
2
Easy Access
2
Cloud Storage
1
Collaboration
1
Cons
Bug Issues
1
Difficult Deletion
1
Expensive
1
File Management
1
Slow Performance
1
PTC Windchill features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.8
Repository
Average: 8.3
9.6
Workflows
Average: 8.5
7.5
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
8.7
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
PTC
Year Founded
1985
HQ Location
Boston, Massachusetts
Twitter
@PTC
38,536 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
8,137 employees on LinkedIn®
Ownership
NASDAQ: PTC
Read PTC Windchill Reviews
Bild
By Bild
(28)4.6 out of 5
3rd Easiest To Use in Product Data Management (PDM) software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:$60.00
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Bild is a cloud-based product data and lifecycle management system that empowers teams to effortlessly manage all their hardware assets in a centralized location. Teams can easily access CAD and desig

    Users
    No information available
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    • Automotive
    Market Segment
    • 75% Small-Business
    • 25% Mid-Market
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Bild Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    13
    User Interface
    9
    Version Control
    8
    Customer Support
    7
    Teamwork
    7
    Cons
    Bug Issues
    7
    File Management
    5
    Duplication Issues
    3
    Learning Curve
    3
    Missing Features
    3
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Bild features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.8
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    8.4
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    8.8
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    8.2
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Bild
    HQ Location
    San Francisco, California
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    19 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Bild is a cloud-based product data and lifecycle management system that empowers teams to effortlessly manage all their hardware assets in a centralized location. Teams can easily access CAD and desig

Users
No information available
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
  • Automotive
Market Segment
  • 75% Small-Business
  • 25% Mid-Market
Bild Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
13
User Interface
9
Version Control
8
Customer Support
7
Teamwork
7
Cons
Bug Issues
7
File Management
5
Duplication Issues
3
Learning Curve
3
Missing Features
3
Bild features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.8
Repository
Average: 8.3
8.4
Workflows
Average: 8.5
8.8
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
8.2
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
Bild
HQ Location
San Francisco, California
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
19 employees on LinkedIn®
Read Bild Reviews
SAP Engineering Control Center
By SAP
(20)4.4 out of 5
View top Consulting Services for SAP Engineering Control Center
Save to My Lists
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Users
    No information available
    Industries
    No information available
    Market Segment
    • 40% Small-Business
    • 40% Mid-Market
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • SAP Engineering Control Center features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.2
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    8.7
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    8.3
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    8.1
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    SAP
    Year Founded
    1972
    HQ Location
    Walldorf
    Twitter
    @SAP
    301,846 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    125,049 employees on LinkedIn®
    Ownership
    NYSE:SAP
Users
No information available
Industries
No information available
Market Segment
  • 40% Small-Business
  • 40% Mid-Market
SAP Engineering Control Center features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.2
Repository
Average: 8.3
8.7
Workflows
Average: 8.5
8.3
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
8.1
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
SAP
Year Founded
1972
HQ Location
Walldorf
Twitter
@SAP
301,846 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
125,049 employees on LinkedIn®
Ownership
NYSE:SAP
Read SAP Engineering Control Center Reviews
Synergis Adept
By Synergis Software
(175)4.4 out of 5
Optimized for quick response
5th Easiest To Use in Product Data Management (PDM) software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:Contact Us
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Adept Software is a centralized document management solution designed to provide users with fast and secure access to their most critical drawings, documents, and data. This platform effectively addre

    Users
    No information available
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    • Oil & Energy
    Market Segment
    • 62% Mid-Market
    • 21% Small-Business
    User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
    • Adept is a document control software that aims to manage and streamline company workflows.
    • Reviewers frequently mention the software's flexibility, ease of use, and implementation, its powerful library cards, version control, and the ability to manage a wide range of file types.
    • Users mentioned issues with the software's steep learning curve, the tediousness of browsing documents, the slow and cumbersome viewer, and the lack of flexibility in the current setup.
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Synergis Adept Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    32
    Document Management
    29
    Customer Support
    28
    Helpful
    18
    Customization
    14
    Cons
    Performance Issues
    10
    Slow Performance
    10
    Limited Features
    9
    Poor Viewer Quality
    8
    Learning Curve
    7
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Synergis Adept features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.9
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    8.8
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    8.3
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    8.2
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Synergis Software
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    1985
    HQ Location
    Quakertown, PA
    Twitter
    @SynergisAdept
    505 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    53 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Adept Software is a centralized document management solution designed to provide users with fast and secure access to their most critical drawings, documents, and data. This platform effectively addre

Users
No information available
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
  • Oil & Energy
Market Segment
  • 62% Mid-Market
  • 21% Small-Business
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
  • Adept is a document control software that aims to manage and streamline company workflows.
  • Reviewers frequently mention the software's flexibility, ease of use, and implementation, its powerful library cards, version control, and the ability to manage a wide range of file types.
  • Users mentioned issues with the software's steep learning curve, the tediousness of browsing documents, the slow and cumbersome viewer, and the lack of flexibility in the current setup.
Synergis Adept Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
32
Document Management
29
Customer Support
28
Helpful
18
Customization
14
Cons
Performance Issues
10
Slow Performance
10
Limited Features
9
Poor Viewer Quality
8
Learning Curve
7
Synergis Adept features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.9
Repository
Average: 8.3
8.8
Workflows
Average: 8.5
8.3
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
8.2
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
Synergis Software
Company Website
Year Founded
1985
HQ Location
Quakertown, PA
Twitter
@SynergisAdept
505 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
53 employees on LinkedIn®
Get a quote
Aras Innovator
By Aras Corp
(53)4.4 out of 5
Optimized for quick response
11th Easiest To Use in Product Data Management (PDM) software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:Free
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Aras Innovator is a flexible and scalable Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) platform designed to help organizations manage complex product data, processes, and digital threads across the enterprise.

    Users
    No information available
    Industries
    • Automotive
    • Shipbuilding
    Market Segment
    • 42% Enterprise
    • 42% Mid-Market
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Aras Innovator Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Customization Flexibility
    9
    Customization
    8
    Flexibility
    8
    Ease of Use
    6
    Easy Integrations
    2
    Cons
    Frequent Changes
    2
    Limited Customization
    2
    Performance Issues
    2
    Poor Customer Support
    2
    Slow Loading
    2
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Aras Innovator features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.7
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    9.1
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    7.8
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    9.0
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Aras Corp
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    2000
    HQ Location
    Andover, Massachusetts
    Twitter
    @aras_plm
    3,436 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    646 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Aras Innovator is a flexible and scalable Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) platform designed to help organizations manage complex product data, processes, and digital threads across the enterprise.

Users
No information available
Industries
  • Automotive
  • Shipbuilding
Market Segment
  • 42% Enterprise
  • 42% Mid-Market
Aras Innovator Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Customization Flexibility
9
Customization
8
Flexibility
8
Ease of Use
6
Easy Integrations
2
Cons
Frequent Changes
2
Limited Customization
2
Performance Issues
2
Poor Customer Support
2
Slow Loading
2
Aras Innovator features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.7
Repository
Average: 8.3
9.1
Workflows
Average: 8.5
7.8
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
9.0
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
Aras Corp
Company Website
Year Founded
2000
HQ Location
Andover, Massachusetts
Twitter
@aras_plm
3,436 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
646 employees on LinkedIn®
Get a quote
Autodesk Vault
By Autodesk
(54)4.1 out of 5
8th Easiest To Use in Product Data Management (PDM) software
View top Consulting Services for Autodesk Vault
Save to My Lists
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Autodesk Vault is product data management software that integrates with Autodesk design tools and other CAD systems to keep everyone working from a central source of organized data. Vault automates de

    Users
    No information available
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    • Oil & Energy
    Market Segment
    • 52% Mid-Market
    • 28% Small-Business
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Autodesk Vault Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    2
    CAD Integration
    1
    Collaboration
    1
    Data Management
    1
    Data Security
    1
    Cons
    Configuration Issues
    1
    Integration Issues
    1
    Lagging Performance
    1
    Training Required
    1
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Autodesk Vault features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    7.1
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    5.3
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    7.1
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    6.3
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Autodesk
    Year Founded
    1982
    HQ Location
    San Francisco
    Twitter
    @autodesk
    283,861 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    15,711 employees on LinkedIn®
    Ownership
    NASDAQ:ADSK
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Autodesk Vault is product data management software that integrates with Autodesk design tools and other CAD systems to keep everyone working from a central source of organized data. Vault automates de

Users
No information available
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
  • Oil & Energy
Market Segment
  • 52% Mid-Market
  • 28% Small-Business
Autodesk Vault Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
2
CAD Integration
1
Collaboration
1
Data Management
1
Data Security
1
Cons
Configuration Issues
1
Integration Issues
1
Lagging Performance
1
Training Required
1
Autodesk Vault features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
7.1
Repository
Average: 8.3
5.3
Workflows
Average: 8.5
7.1
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
6.3
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
Autodesk
Year Founded
1982
HQ Location
San Francisco
Twitter
@autodesk
283,861 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
15,711 employees on LinkedIn®
Ownership
NASDAQ:ADSK
Read Autodesk Vault Reviews
FindChips
By Supplyframe, Inc.
(10)4.7 out of 5
Save to My Lists
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Electronic Part Pricing and Insights Price & Inventory Search - Findchips offers a single place to view up to date pricing and inventory from the world's largest distributors. CAD Model Download

    Users
    No information available
    Industries
    No information available
    Market Segment
    • 90% Small-Business
    • 10% Mid-Market
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • FindChips Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Search Efficiency
    1
    Cons
    Inefficient Search Functionality
    1
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • FindChips features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    6.1
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    8.3
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    9.8
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    7.0
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Supplyframe, Inc.
    Year Founded
    2003
    HQ Location
    Pasadena, CA
    Twitter
    @Supplyframe
    4,078 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    316 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Electronic Part Pricing and Insights Price & Inventory Search - Findchips offers a single place to view up to date pricing and inventory from the world's largest distributors. CAD Model Download

Users
No information available
Industries
No information available
Market Segment
  • 90% Small-Business
  • 10% Mid-Market
FindChips Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Search Efficiency
1
Cons
Inefficient Search Functionality
1
FindChips features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
6.1
Repository
Average: 8.3
8.3
Workflows
Average: 8.5
9.8
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
7.0
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
Supplyframe, Inc.
Year Founded
2003
HQ Location
Pasadena, CA
Twitter
@Supplyframe
4,078 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
316 employees on LinkedIn®
Read FindChips Reviews
SolidWorks PDM
By Solidworks
(76)4.2 out of 5
7th Easiest To Use in Product Data Management (PDM) software
Save to My Lists
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    SOLIDWORKS PDM enables your teams to securely store and index design data for fast retrieval, eliminate concerns over version control and data loss, and collaborate on designs in multiple locations.

    Users
    No information available
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    • Design
    Market Segment
    • 50% Small-Business
    • 33% Mid-Market
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • SolidWorks PDM Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Customization Flexibility
    2
    BOM Management
    1
    CAD Integration
    1
    Continuous Improvement
    1
    Customer Support
    1
    Cons
    Access Issues
    1
    Assembly Issues
    1
    File Management
    1
    Integration Issues
    1
    Lagging Performance
    1
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • SolidWorks PDM features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    7.8
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    8.2
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    8.0
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    7.8
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Solidworks
    Year Founded
    1993
    HQ Location
    Waltham, MA
    Twitter
    @SOLIDWORKS
    183,668 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    Ownership
    EPA: DSY
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

SOLIDWORKS PDM enables your teams to securely store and index design data for fast retrieval, eliminate concerns over version control and data loss, and collaborate on designs in multiple locations.

Users
No information available
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
  • Design
Market Segment
  • 50% Small-Business
  • 33% Mid-Market
SolidWorks PDM Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Customization Flexibility
2
BOM Management
1
CAD Integration
1
Continuous Improvement
1
Customer Support
1
Cons
Access Issues
1
Assembly Issues
1
File Management
1
Integration Issues
1
Lagging Performance
1
SolidWorks PDM features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
7.8
Repository
Average: 8.3
8.2
Workflows
Average: 8.5
8.0
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
7.8
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
Solidworks
Year Founded
1993
HQ Location
Waltham, MA
Twitter
@SOLIDWORKS
183,668 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
Ownership
EPA: DSY
Read SolidWorks PDM Reviews
Windchill PDMLink
By PTC
(18)4.1 out of 5
Save to My Lists
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Windchill PDMLink is a Web-based, industry-proven Product Data Management (PDM) system that supports geographically dispersed teams while managing critical processes such as content, change, and confi

Users
No information available
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
Market Segment
  • 44% Enterprise
  • 39% Mid-Market
Windchill PDMLink Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
BOM Management
1
CAD Integration
1
Capabilities
1
Collaboration
1
Ease of Use
1
Cons
Training Required
2
Lagging Performance
1
Learning Curve
1
Learning Difficulty
1
Windchill PDMLink features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
7.5
Repository
Average: 8.3
8.8
Workflows
Average: 8.5
9.0
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
8.3
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
PTC
Year Founded
1985
HQ Location
Boston, Massachusetts
Twitter
@PTC
38,536 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
8,137 employees on LinkedIn®
Ownership
NASDAQ: PTC
Read Windchill PDMLink Reviews
Autodesk Fusion Manage
By Autodesk
(105)4.3 out of 5
10th Easiest To Use in Product Data Management (PDM) software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:Contact Us
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    What is Autodesk Fusion Manage? Autodesk Fusion Manage is a cloud-based product lifecycle management solution that connects your people, processes, and data. It enhances workflows and improves collab

    Users
    • Design Engineer
    Industries
    • Automotive
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    Market Segment
    • 47% Mid-Market
    • 40% Small-Business
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Autodesk Fusion Manage features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    9.3
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    9.2
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    8.2
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    8.9
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Autodesk
    Year Founded
    1982
    HQ Location
    San Francisco
    Twitter
    @autodesk
    283,861 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    15,711 employees on LinkedIn®
    Ownership
    NASDAQ:ADSK
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

What is Autodesk Fusion Manage? Autodesk Fusion Manage is a cloud-based product lifecycle management solution that connects your people, processes, and data. It enhances workflows and improves collab

Users
  • Design Engineer
Industries
  • Automotive
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
Market Segment
  • 47% Mid-Market
  • 40% Small-Business
Autodesk Fusion Manage features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
9.3
Repository
Average: 8.3
9.2
Workflows
Average: 8.5
8.2
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
8.9
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
Autodesk
Year Founded
1982
HQ Location
San Francisco
Twitter
@autodesk
283,861 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
15,711 employees on LinkedIn®
Ownership
NASDAQ:ADSK
Read Autodesk Fusion Manage Reviews
GrabCAD Workbench
By GrabCAD
(26)4.4 out of 5
Save to My Lists
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    GrabCAD Workbench is the simple cloud-based PDM that makes it easy for engineering organizations to manage and share CAD files without the cost and IT hassle of traditional installed solutions.

    Users
    No information available
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    Market Segment
    • 54% Small-Business
    • 19% Mid-Market
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • GrabCAD Workbench features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    9.4
    Repository
    Average: 8.3
    9.6
    Workflows
    Average: 8.5
    8.6
    Ease of Use
    Average: 8.1
    9.4
    Types
    Average: 8.3
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    GrabCAD
    Year Founded
    2009
    HQ Location
    Cambridge, MA
    Twitter
    @GrabCAD
    9,056 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    80 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

GrabCAD Workbench is the simple cloud-based PDM that makes it easy for engineering organizations to manage and share CAD files without the cost and IT hassle of traditional installed solutions.

Users
No information available
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
Market Segment
  • 54% Small-Business
  • 19% Mid-Market
GrabCAD Workbench features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
9.4
Repository
Average: 8.3
9.6
Workflows
Average: 8.5
8.6
Ease of Use
Average: 8.1
9.4
Types
Average: 8.3
Seller Details
Seller
GrabCAD
Year Founded
2009
HQ Location
Cambridge, MA
Twitter
@GrabCAD
9,056 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
80 employees on LinkedIn®
Read GrabCAD Workbench Reviews
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59 Listings in Product Data Management (PDM) Available
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Product Data Management (PDM) Topics

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Learn More About Product Data Management (PDM) Software

What is PDM Software?

PDM, or product data management software gives users a place to store and manage all product information. This centralized database for all product information can store designs, engineering data, bills of materials, and critical information on processes used to create and modify product data.

Accessing design files from CAD software or other design solutions can be extremely challenging at times. Sometimes these design files can be difficult to find, or not communicate enough information about the product. PDM software creates a centralized database for users so they can have access to critical product data that would otherwise be difficult to locate.

Key Benefits of PDM Software

  • Find data more efficiently, saving time for users
  • Provide more visibility and improve collaboration across teams
  • Reduce development errors and costs

Why Use PDM Software?

PDM software helps companies gain total control over their product information and data. This allows users to improve collaboration, enhance traceability, and create a more efficient product development process. Additionally, one central location for all this important product information provides more visibility across teams, as well as accessibility and ease of use for clients.

In a competitive market, designers and manufacturers must use every edge they have so they can bring products to market in the most efficient way possible. PDM software provides that extra edge, and is an essential tool to get the most out of engineering and design teams.

Improved collaboration — Perhaps the most useful function of installing a PDM software is collaboration. PDM software allows users to share data quickly, track revisions that are made to the data, and provide comments and suggestions in the database.

Quicker time to market — When engineers have quicker access to the data they’re looking for, it allows them to design at a more efficient pace. This generally speeds up the design process and quickly brings the product to market.

Less errors — A centralized database where multiple users and teams can check each other’s data usually results in fewer errors. This both enhances and expedites the process as errors can be caught and corrected by multiple parties.

Who Uses PDM Software?

Manufacturers — Manufacturers utilize PDM software so they can control product data throughout the product lifecycle, from initial design stages to the final production of a product. Having control over product data allows manufacturers to streamline and automate processes related to the product such as engineering change orders.

Kinds of PDM Software

Cloud PDM — Cloud solutions allow users to access the software on an online server. This gives users the added benefit of providing more collaboration and accessibility. For businesses that work with companies in other countries, this is a crucial factor to consider. The drawbacks for some businesses might be the subscription-based model that many operate on; this means that most services charge on a monthly basis instead of a one-time cost. The reliance on internet connectivity to use the software can also be difficult for some organizations. Cloud connectivity can be difficult for some businesses and organizations if they do not always have reliable access to the internet.

On-premise PDM — On-premise solutions are generally installed on local desktops and come at a one-time cost. The associated benefits of on-premise solutions include customizability, not relying on Wi-Fi, and having total control and ownership of the software. However, on-premise PDMs do not benefit from updates or additional IT help if something is not working properly like cloud PDMs.

PDM Software Features

Remote access — One of the key features of PDM software is remote access. This is especially useful for teams that have to communicate across the globe. The PDM enables remote design locations to receive real-time updates on design changes, which allows them to have immediate access to the data.

Secure access— Secure access features allow users to set permissions on who is allowed to access the software. This is a great way to ensure that your data is always secure.

Data lookup — Data lookup features allow users to quickly locate documents based on product names, contained data, metadata, workflow state, and other parameters.

Collaboration— Beyond sharing access to data, PDM software allows users to share collaborative feedback on each other’s work. Users can share 2D or 3D views of teammate’s work and offer comments and feedback directly in the software.

Revision control — PDM software allows users to go back and look at all past changes that were made in the dataset. Even if a project has been going on for months, users can access past versions. This ensures that no data gets lost, and allows users to reuse old designs.

Manufacturing processes — Manufacturers use PDM software for managing product data, and to establish a centralized location for best processes.


Potential Issues with PDM Software

Having multiple CAD systems — One of the major issues that can occur when implementing a PDM is if you need to import data from multiple CAD systems. Often times, vendors have a PDM associated with their particular CAD system. These are PDM systems that offer more functionality if they are integrated with the same vendor’s CAD system. Some users say that the only problem with this is that if you have other CAD systems, then the PDM might lag more or have difficultly integrating with it.