Design databases and PLM — Can design databases (PDM/PLM/EDMS) streamline the design process by centralizing data, automating workflows, enabling reuse, and improving change control?

Introduction / Context:
Design databases—implemented as PDM/PLM/EDMS—serve as the backbone of modern engineering organizations. They integrate CAD, BOMs, documents, and workflows so teams can collaborate efficiently with reliable traceability from concept through release and into maintenance.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Claim: design databases can streamline the design process.
• Functions considered: centralized storage, version control, approvals, part reuse, and search.
• Users: design engineers, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and service.

Concept / Approach:
Centralization reduces duplication and ensures everyone works from current data. Automated workflows speed reviews and enforce compliance. Metadata enables powerful search, classification, and analytics, while reuse libraries cut cycle time and cost. Integration with ERP and requirements tools further improves coordination and change impact assessment.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Store and index all design artifacts with rich metadata.2) Control revisions and access, using formal states and approvals.3) Enable part and design reuse through libraries and templates.4) Automate change processes (ECR/ECO) to maintain quality and speed.

Verification / Alternative check:
Organizations adopting PLM typically report fewer errors from using outdated files, faster design reviews, and improved supplier collaboration through controlled access to released data.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Incorrect: Denies clear, widely observed benefits.
• After production launch only: Value is highest during development and continues afterward.
• Archival only: The primary value is active collaboration and change control.
• CAD-only: Metadata, BOMs, requirements, and documents are equally important.

Common Pitfalls:
Poor metadata discipline; insufficient training; bypassing workflows; weak integration between CAD and PLM leading to mismatched revisions.

Final Answer:
Correct