How well can PLM fit with ERP?

Ever since the early development of PDM systems, the subject of developing a common set of interfaces and standards has always been a key discussion topic between PLM and ERP. So what is being done today to improve integration to help achieve a truly FASTER Supply Chain?

• We now have improved open technology (XML and web services) which allows PLM and ERP providers to develop interfaces and standards between the two systems, for example common attributes that are used by both systems:
  • Product header information fields
  • Standard fabric composition fields
  • Standard trims fields
  • Standard image types
  • Standard POM & measurement points
  • Standard Critical Path key fields
  • Standard RFQ (Refer For Quote) fields

• Today, systems that are built using modern platforms and technologies which can enable customers to develop their own middleware interfaces based on dynamic data tables.

So, is PLM worth the investment? 

Yes, of course, but implementing a PLM system isn’t just about installing a piece of software. It is an enterprise-wide solution that needs commitment in terms of resource, training, process rationalisation and internal communications. Calculating the cost and time savings from implementing any PLM system is extremely complex. It is rare to find accurate, scientific ROI (Return on Investment) calculations specific for the apparel market, so it is common for savings/figures to be published from other industries which are in fact wild estimates! There are a multitude of factors that can affect the ROI (Return on Investment) as every company is different, operating within and across different locations. WhichPLM has developed an ROI Calculator to help companies to find out how much value PLM will add and also the cost of not implementing PLM.

Future trends

• More PLM vendors are striving to offer a complete ‘end to end’ PLM solution for the apparel/retail sectors, i.e. broader PLM solutions which ‘cover’ more apparel related processes that are currently being managed by other, separate systems, such as: trend research, 3D virtual modeling, storyboarding, advanced line planning, visual merchandising, virtual retail store planning, design, managing marketing data, visual costing, distribution, RFID and sourcing.  
  
• Connecting the supply chain further to encompass more factories and mills. It makes sense to share information with suppliers earlier in the product development process.
  
• PLM will become an integral part of a company’s green strategy to reduce carbon footprint.
  
• SaaS: SaaS solutions present tremendous opportunities for all sizes of companies, but the main users today in the apparel industry are the SME’s (Small to Medium Enterprises). The bottom line is that, in these uncertain times, SaaS offers the apparel industry a low cost and accessible entry into the Product Lifecycle Management world.
  
• Ethical Trading: Smart companies thrive on the availability of information and, although total control of the supply chain maybe impossible, investment in PLM technology is a step in the right direction.
  
• Innovation in the credit crunch: more companies will focus on becoming lean and delivering up the minute FAST fashion with PLM. There is no better time than now to start improving development processes and coming up with new ways to stay competitive.

For more information:

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