What is PLM/PDM?

PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) and PDM (Product Data Management) are related but distinct technologies. PDM primarily focuses on managing product data, including CAD files, documents, and part information, throughout the design and engineering phases. PLM encompasses PDM and extends to manage the entire product lifecycle, from conception and design to manufacturing, service, and disposal. PLM systems often integrate with other enterprise systems like ERP and CRM. PLM helps organizations streamline product development, improve collaboration, and ensure product data accuracy, while PDM is focused on the efficient storage, retrieval, and version control of product related information. They are commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and consumer goods.