What is ERP vs PLM?

Your business needs any advantage it can get, and this means that it is in your best interest to use technology to adapt and overcome. Here, technology means not only upgrading hardware or installing more efficient machinery, but in particular it means understanding the best planning and management systems that can give your business the edge that it needs.

Two systems that can boost your business’s efficiency are enterprise resource planning (ERP) and product lifecycle management (PLM). When it comes to weighing the differences of ERP vs PLM, you find that instead of picking one over the other, it can be extremely beneficial to have them work hand in hand.

First off, ERP refers to the systems, software and solutions that ensure your quality products will be manufactured in both a timely and cost-effective manner. Many businesses will categorize an ERP system to be an essential business tool, as these systems are built to satisfy the needs of an everyday operation. 

These tools are not just limited to the manufacturing process, but other aspects that benefit include human resources, finance, accounting, purchasing, inventory management, distribution, labor, and customer service. ERP systems will also handle certain operational concerns such as warehousing and logistics. 

Next, PLM refers to the systems, software and solutions that manage the processes behind the product, such as the management and collaboration needed to bring units to market. The data, information and history are all tracked through these systems, and the analysis that it provides will bring many benefits.

As collaboration and communication are key through a product’s lifecycle, PLM solutions make it easier to design, develop, and manufacture with accurate and up-to-date information. With support from PLM systems, you can engage with your customers better, and improve on the aspects that help differentiate your products to others in the marketplace.

By implementing both systems, the information about your business’s manufacturing process is accessible at every stage, allowing a cohesive and efficient plan to bring a product to market. These systems will ultimately reduce or eliminate costly mistakes by creating a powerful source of data on the processes and workflow. 

By adapting and incorporating both enterprise resource planning and product lifecycle management, your business will gain the needed edge over the market to maximize its successes. For more information on adapting and incorporating the usefulness of ERP and PLM systems, call Cybergear today at (586) 531-7116. 

Because our mission is to help our clients improve, we treat your capital as if it were our own. By combining lean and factory physics concepts with digital manufacturing, Cybergear helps manufacturers remain adaptable in a constantly changing industry by increasing quality, efficiency, and ultimately—profits.