PLMIG

It is the deliverable of the first event in the Launch of the PLM Maturity Reference Model (MRM) initiative - a three-day workshop hosted by PSA Peugeot Citroën at their facilities in Paris.

The Reference Manual sets out the first open framework for classifying and assessing PLM Maturity.  It therefore gives shape to what has until now been an ill-defined area of PLM, and enables clear and consistent discussion and planning.

The Version 1.0 Reference Manual acts as a textbook to define what "Maturity" is in PLM terms, and describes how you can use this in your own environment as a tool for roadmapping and target setting.

The Manual has a clear structure in three main parts, designed to take the user through the subject in the most logical way.  Part 1 is an Overview that describes the context in which the Manual was created; how it relates to other models and standards; and covers definitions such as "PLM Traction", "Lights On Assessement" and "Generative Project Management".

You cannot apply metrics to PLM Maturity until you know what it is, and Part 2 of the Manual explains both the current knowledge of the subject, and concepts that need to be explored in the future.

The Manual provides a working definition of PLM Maturity, and describes the effects of factors such as industry sector, organisation type or product development position.  It then sets out the metrics, or "PLM Scales", that apply to the two assessment methodologies.

The Paris Workshop showed that there are two possible approaches to the evaluation and use of PLM Maturity:-

• Structure-Based
• Activity-Based

The Structure-Based approach views PLM as a relatively organised environment in which well-defined processes act on tangible parts of the operations and infrastructure in a controlled series of events according to published and monitored plans.  The assessment approach is similarly structured and formal, making it easy to understand and report against.

The Activity-Based approach views PLM as a business improvement paradigm which must compete for understanding and support in a continuously-changing environment.  It measures your awareness of and adaptation to PLM, and it can be used in a high-profile or low-key way as required.

The aim of a PLM Maturity assessment is to give a clear and informative picture of current PLM progress, and to show the way forward towards full maturity.  Both methodologies do this, so the choice can be made that is most appropriate for your organisation and your preferred way of working.

Part 3 continues with a description of how a PLM Team can carry out their Structure-Based or Activity-Based assessment, leading to a Review stage which generates new business improvement projects.

Users of the PLM Maturity Reference Manual not only take advantage of early adoption of these new methodologies, but will benefit from the continued development of the MRM via the PLMIG.  

For more information contact mrm@plmig.com