A process based methodology to evaluate the use of PLM tools in the product design

Abstract

The product design requires the interaction of several disciplines and the use of a wide set of PLM tools. They are used both to design the product elements and also, to manage product data and information that are generated. For company working as ETO (Engineering To Order), the complexity increases. Generally, customers requires a certification of the design process and a clear and formalized workflow of approval and validation. The paper describes a methodology for evaluating the use of PLM tools in the design process of products. The proposed methodology aims to be an objective tool able to catch information of the impact of ICT directly from the processes using them. Techniques specific of the Business Process Management discipline have been used. Phases and indicators of the methodology can be applied to analyze the product design process in different context.