2. Start your implementation project

2.1 CAD integration

Depending on your company's CAD software, you may be directed towards your CAD publisher's data management solution. Some of these products are more design-oriented, but provide simple access to a secure data vault, while efficiently managing your revision takings.

If you work in a multi-CAD environment, you'll be looking for a more open solution. Many PLM editors offer interfaces to the main CAD tools. What's more, these interfaces enable you to generate "lightweight" CAD models: 3D models are exported in a format that can be viewed by non-CAD users. This makes your digital mock-up...