PLM Maturity Model Development and Implementation in SME

Abstract

The product lifecycle management (PLM) is an important tool for managing products and its data throughout the life cycle. The advantages of the PLM systems are well-known in the case of large enterprises and groups. In the current study the objective is to simplify and optimize PLM implementation through PLM maturity model in small and medium size enterprises (SME). The introduced maturity model allows estimating the current situation in SME through use of questionnaires. The information gathered includes the expectations of the SME and will answer different questions like how are benefits connected with different business dimensions and their sub-categories described in maturity model. The business dimensions are evaluated by the expert group. The maturity model proposed in this paper is based on combining the know-how of the expert group and Fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP) techniques. The proposed PLM maturity model is implemented in Estonian SME bringing out current situation in: Strategy & Policy, Management & Control, Organization & Processes, Information technology, People & Culture.