8.9
Editor’s Rating:
Best Overall
PTC Windchill PLM: Tasks and Reports
PTC Windchill PLM
  • Effective collaboration tools
  • Extensive security measures
  • Multi-device compatibility
8.7
Editor’s Rating:
Most Customizable Option
Teamcenter PLM: Product Overview
Teamcenter PLM
  • Streamlined product development processes
  • Enhanced collaboration and communication
  • Improved data visibility and management
8.7
Editor’s Rating:
Advanced Quality Management
Propel: Product Dashboard
Propel
  • Cloud-based platform
  • Configurable workflows
  • Integrated quality management

PLM software manages the entire lifecycle of a product from inception, through engineering design and manufacturing, to service and disposal. We used our advanced review methodology to rank the top PLM solutions on the market today.

1 PTC Windchill - Best Overall

Why we chose it: PTC Windchill is best overall because it streamlines product development processes, encompassing design, manufacturing, and service. It tracks modifications made to the product, including design adjustments, component substitutions, or regulatory compliance updates, ensuring all stakeholders remain informed and synchronized.

The platform is compatible with various devices, including desktops, smartphones, and tablets. It also features end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and stringent access controls to safeguard confidential data. Organizations can rely on PTC Windchill to protect their intellectual property and sensitive information throughout the product lifecycle.

Best Overall:
PTC Windchill PLM
★★★★★
★★★★★
(1)

PTC Windchill PLM: Tasks and Reports
PTC Windchill PLM: Visualization and Attributes
PTC Windchill PLM: Structure
PTC Windchill PLM: Review Process
What We Like
Extensive security measures
Multi-device compatibility
Has scheduling, design templates, and change notifications features
What We Don’t Like
Has a steep learning curve
Software can lag at times
Lacks modern features
Overview
Price Range: $$$
Starting Price: $30/user/month
Client OS: Web
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

2 Teamcenter - Most Customizable Option

Why we chose it: Teamcenter can adapt to different business needs and processes. It offers configurable workflows, user interfaces, and data models to match each organization’s specific requirements. This customization allows businesses to align the software with their unique product development methodologies.

Additionally, it integrates with systems like SAP and Oracle. It can sync with CRM platforms and various CAD, CAM, and CAE tools. These integrations help eliminate data silos and facilitate a more connected product development process

Most Customizable Option:
Teamcenter PLM
★★★★★
★★★★★
(1)

Teamcenter PLM: Product Overview
Teamcenter PLM: BOM
Teamcenter PLM: Architecture
Teamcenter PLM: Home Screen
Teamcenter PLM: Product Summary
Teamcenter PLM: Manufacturing Process Planner
Teamcenter PLM: Structure Manager
Teamcenter PLM: Organization
What We Like
Streamlined product development processes
Enhanced collaboration and communication
Improved data visibility and management
What We Don’t Like
Pricing details not provided by the developer
Limited mobile application support
Overview
Client OS: Windows
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

3 Propel - Advanced Quality Management

Why we chose it: Propel offers a comprehensive suite of quality control features, including quality planning, inspection, and testing. These tools allow businesses to define quality standards and processes, conduct inspections, and track product quality at every stage of development.

Propel ensures traceability by linking quality data to specific product components, design changes, and manufacturing processes. This traceability is crucial for identifying the root causes of quality problems and implementing corrective actions effectively.

Advanced Quality Management:
Propel
★★★★★
★★★★★
(3)

Propel: Product Dashboard
Propel: Peak Project Status Report
Propel: Items
Propel: Bill of Materials
What We Like
Cloud-based platform
Configurable workflows
Integrated quality management
What We Don’t Like
Exact pricing details require a developer quote
Reliant on Salesforce to operate
Overview
Price Range: $$
Client OS: Web
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

4 PDXpert - Most Versatile Option

Why we chose it: PDXpert has a wide range of use cases, making it a top choice for companies across various industries. For example, it is extensively used in the aerospace sector, assisting with compliance and regulatory documentation. Similarly, it has found a niche in the electronics industry, as it helps manage the rapid pace of technological advancements by streamlining design changes and component sourcing.

Additionally, its management of bill of materials (BOM) allows users to create, update, and maintain multi-level BOM structures effortlessly. Additionally, PDXpert facilitates efficient document control by managing revisions and automating approval processes. These features save time and resources, proving invaluable for companies with intricate product development processes.

Most Versatile:
PDXpert PLM

PDXpert PLM: BOM Sorting
PDXpert PLM: Item Explorer
PDXpert PLM: Assign Component Quantities
What We Like
Easy-to-use interface
Affordable pricing and scalability
Comprehensive document management capabilities
What We Don’t Like
Clunky UI on Windows
Limited built-in functionality customization
Overview
Price Range: $$
Starting Price: $49/user/month
Client OS: Windows, Web
Deployment: Cloud or On-Premises

5 Arena PLM - Best Collaboration Capabilities

Why we chose it: We chose Arena PLM because it fosters collaboration among cross-functional teams during product development. Its collaborative features enable real-time communication, task management, and document sharing among team members and stakeholders.

Arena PLM also provides visibility into the entire product lifecycle, allowing teams to work seamlessly, from initial design to manufacturing and service. Its integrated supplier portal enhances communication with external partners, streamlining the supply chain and ensuring product quality and timeliness.

Best Collaboration Capabilities:
Arena PLM
★★★★★
★★★★★
(4)

Arena PLM: Specific Material Page
Arena PLM: Sourcing Page
Arena PLM: Bill of Materials
Arena PLM: Dashboard
Arena PLM: Approvals
Arena PLM: BOM Documentation
Arena PLM: Items
Arena PLM: Item Details
What We Like
Comprehensive product lifecycle management
Strong collaboration tools
Effective integration with CAD systems
What We Don’t Like
User interface complexity
Limited customization in standard plans
Price details not provided by the developer
Overview
Client OS: Web
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

6 OpenBOM - Agile BOMs Management

Why we chose it: We found OpenBOM has an agile approach to bill of materials management. It offers a modern, cloud-based platform that simplifies BOM creation, modification, and sharing across distributed teams.

OpenBOM provides real-time BOM collaboration, revision control, and automated part cataloging. Its unique capability to link BOM data with CAD and other design tools enhances product development efficiency, ensuring accurate BOMs and reducing errors during manufacturing.

Agile BOMs Management:
OpenBOM
★★★★★
★★★★★
(2)

OpenBOM: Multi-Level BOM
OpenBOM: OpenBOM Drive Cloud PDM
OpenBOM: All Items
OpenBOM: All Catalogs
What We Like
Robust integration with CAD tools
Efficient real-time collaboration features
User-friendly “Excel-like” interface
What We Don’t Like
Can be slow with very complex models
Steeper learning curve for some functionalities
Reliance on a robust internet connection due to cloud-based nature
Overview
Price Range: $$
Starting Price: Free
Client OS: Web
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

7 Oracle Fusion Cloud PLM - Agile PLM Replacement

Why we chose it: Oracle announced that as of October 2023, its Agile PLM software would no longer be available for sale, signaling a significant transition in its product offering. However, the company has committed to supporting existing Agile PLM customers until 2027. This decision reflects Oracle’s strategic move towards cloud-based solutions, encouraging their current Agile PLM users to transition to Oracle Fusion Cloud PLM.

This newer platform is designed to offer a more integrated, flexible, and advanced solution for product lifecycle management, aligning with the evolving needs of businesses in a digital-first world. Oracle’s support until 2027 ensures that customers have ample time and resources to smoothly transition to the cloud, benefitting from the latest innovations and technologies in PLM.

Agile PLM Replacement:
Oracle Fusion Cloud PLM

Oracle Fusion Cloud PLM: Oracle Cloud PLM Dashboard
Oracle Fusion Cloud PLM: Consolidated Dashboard
Oracle Fusion Cloud PLM: Oracle Cloud PLM
Oracle Fusion Cloud PLM: Oracle PLM Strategic Product Launch
Oracle Fusion Cloud PLM: Oracle PLM Concept Structure
Oracle Fusion Cloud PLM: Oracle PLM Item Attributes
Oracle Fusion Cloud PLM: Oracle PLM Efficiency Improvement
Oracle Fusion Cloud PLM: Oracle PLM Change Impact
What We Like
Unified data model
Integrated quality management
Advanced analytics with product performance and market trends
What We Don’t Like
Complex implementation due to the wealth of features
Requires consult call for pricing
Overview
Price Range: $$$$
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

8 ENOVIA - 3D Experience Management

Why we chose it: ENOVIA provides a unified platform for managing 3D product data, collaborative design, and simulation.

ENOVIA’s 3D capabilities enable visualization, simulation, and virtual testing, allowing for better design decisions and improved product quality. It also supports regulatory compliance and provides a single source of truth for product information, enhancing collaboration across geographically dispersed teams.

Strong 3D Experience Management:
ENOVIA

ENOVIA: Dashboard
ENOVIA: Bookmarks Editor
ENOVIA: Communities Page
ENOVIA: 3D Product Architect
ENOVIA: Cloud Configuration
ENOVIA: Financial Information
What We Like
Offers team collaboration tools
Real-time manufacturing simulation processes
Trend detection capabilities
What We Don’t Like
Limited downstream process control
Lengthy document revision time
Complex for non-tech savvy users
Overview
Client OS: Windows
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

9 Productboard - Best Product Management Tools

Why we chose it Productboard offers an effective combination of user feedback aggregation, product roadmapping, and prioritization frameworks. This platform aids in making informed decisions on product changes by centralizing customer feedback and utilizing prioritization tools to align features with strategic goals.

Its integration with development tools streamlines the transition from planning to execution, ensuring efforts are focused on high-impact initiatives. Productboard simplifies product management, guiding the team to prioritize changes that deliver the most customer value.

Best Product Management Tools:
Productboard
★★★★★
★★★★★
(3)

Productboard: Build Better Roadmaps
Productboard: Focus on Prioritization
Productboard: Review Product Insights
Productboard: Measure Engagement
What We Like
Intuitive UI and customization
Offers detailed progress tracking
Integrates with Zendesk, Jira, Salesforce
What We Don’t Like
Limited export capabilities
Learning curve for new users
Occasional performance issues with large volumes of data
Overview
Price Range: $
Starting Price: Free
Client OS: Web
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

10 Bamboo Rose - Retail Product Lifecycle Management

Why we chose it Bamboo Rose is the premier choice for retail product lifecycle management that streamlines product development from concept to shelf. Its platform enhances supply chain efficiency, simplifies global trade, and fosters supplier collaboration, ensuring products meet regulatory and sustainability standards. The integration capabilities and advanced analytics further empower retailers to make data-driven decisions, making Bamboo Rose a scalable and efficient choice for innovative and competitive market leadership.

In March of 2023 Bamboo Rose acquired Backbone PLM to enhance creativity and productivity in design and sourcing, providing a comprehensive PLM solution that accelerates the digital journey for retailers and brands, ensuring faster product market entry without compromising design quality.

Retail Product Lifecycle Management:
Bamboo Rose

Bamboo Rose: Bamboo Rose
Bamboo Rose: Bamboo Rose
Bamboo Rose: Bamboo Rose Request
What We Like
Industry specific features
Strong market insights and analytics on trends and demands
What We Don’t Like
Requires consult call for pricing
No free trial available
Overview
Client OS: Web
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

What is PLM Software?

PLM software is a central tool for managing a product’s lifecycle from its beginning to end, enhancing team collaboration, data organization, and efficiency. It helps overcome challenges like disjointed information and slow market entry, leading to better quality, lower costs, and quicker innovation.

Designed to integrate with systems such as ERP and CAD, PLM is essential in complex industries and now more accessible through cloud technology and intuitive interfaces. It improves engineering, marketing, and sales by centralizing product information and automating processes.

We evaluated the best PLM software to bring you our top picks based on pricing, integration options, and capabilities like product lifecycle tracking and regulatory compliance.

Product Development Lifecycle

Product lifecycle management software helps your business develop new products faster, improve quality products, and collaborate with your colleagues. By connecting and aligning data, processes, and technology, the software quickly brings high-quality products to market.

PLM software keeps your business organized so you can manage the entire lifecycle of a product from conception through design and manufacture and finally disposal. By conducting research, products can be created for a targeted demographic. Mockups and prototypes test the product before being moved into production. Then, the solution is created with the right materials, costs, and timelines. From there, the products go out to the appropriate sales channels.

Who Uses PLM?

Manufacturing industries primarily use product lifecycle management. Due to the vast number of parts they source from thousands of suppliers, they stood to benefit the most from this type of system. Created with the auto and aviation industries, PLM can now help any company that develops products to lower costs, improve quality, or shorten the time to market.

Today, certain manufacturers, such as those in consumer packaged goods, stand to benefit the most by using PLM in their complex environments. This means any manufacturer of goods or merchandise that customers use and replace regularly can reap the advantages PLM software gives their business. Food, beverage, cosmetics, and cleaning product manufacturers are the biggest examples.

Choosing the Best PLM Software

1 Define Product Lifecycle Stages:

Clearly define the stages of your product lifecycle, from ideation and design to manufacturing and service. Identify the specific pain points and challenges a PLM system should address at each stage.

2 Data Management and Version Control:

Prioritize product data management (PDM) capabilities, including effective version control, revision tracking, and centralized storage of design documents. Ensure the PLM software can handle complex product structures and engineering changes efficiently.

3 Integration with CAD and Other Tools:

Evaluate the PLM software’s ability to integrate seamlessly with your existing CAD software and other critical tools in your design and engineering processes. Check for compatibility and data exchange capabilities.

4 BOM Management and Configuration Control:

Focus on the system’s bill of materials (BOM) management capabilities. Look for features that enable multi-level BOM creation, configuration control, and easy updates to keep product information accurate and up-to-date.

5 Collaboration and Cross-Functional Communication:

Ensure the PLM software offers robust collaboration tools for cross-functional teams. Look for real-time communication, task assignment, and workflow automation to facilitate collaboration among designers, engineers, and manufacturers.

6 Regulatory Compliance and Traceability:

Verify that the PLM software supports regulatory compliance requirements specific to your industry. Look for features that enable traceability of design changes, quality control processes, and documentation to meet regulatory standards.

What Are the Key Features of PLM Software?

PLM software delivers core functionalities to streamline and optimize product development and lifecycle management processes. Key features of PLM software include:

Feature Description
Product Data Management (PDM) Centralized storage and management of product-related data, including CAD files, bill of materials, documents, and specifications
Bill of Materials (BOM) Management Creation, maintenance, and tracking of product BOMs, including multi-level BOMs
Version Control & Revision Tracking Detailed version history and tracking of changes made to product designs, documents, and other data
Workflow Automation Creation and management of automated workflows to streamline approval processes, change management, and collaboration
Collaboration Tools Real-time communication, task assignment, and document-sharing capabilities for designers, engineers, and manufacturers
Document Management Efficient management of documents related to product development, including technical specifications, compliance documents, and user manuals
CAD Integration Integration with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to enable direct access to design files and models
Quality Management Tools for defining and managing quality standards, inspections, and testing processes
Supplier Collaboration Collaboration portals or features that allow for efficient communication and data sharing with suppliers
Analytics and Reporting Data analytics and reporting tools that provide insights into product performance, development timelines, and resource utilization
Change Management Comprehensive change management capabilities for tracking and managing design changes, engineering change orders (ECOs), and their impact on the product lifecycle
Regulatory Compliance Features to support compliance with industry-specific regulations and standards
Risk Management Tools to identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with product development
Simulation and Analysis Integration with simulation and analysis tools for virtual testing and validation of product designs
Scalability and Customization The ability to scale the PLM system to accommodate growing product portfolios and customizable features to adapt to unique business workflows
Mobile Access Mobile compatibility to enable access to PLM data and collaboration tools on smartphones and tablets
Security and Access Control Security features including encryption, access controls, and user authentication

Why Should A Business Use PLM Software?

If a PLM software implementation is successful, it should save your company money in the long run via increased efficiency and improved time to market.

It’s important not to be drawn in by advertised low monthly prices and instead find the solution that will benefit your business the most in the long run. Knowing exactly what the PLM software offers will give you the best insight into how many users truly need access, which can lead to savings over time.

PLM also provides the following benefits:

  • Reduced risk
  • Increased productivity
  • Improved cost control
  • Faster time to market
  • Higher Profits
  • Better Quality Products

What Does Product Lifecycle Management Software Cost?

Product lifecycle management software has a minimum average cost of $80/user/month, billed annually. This is for a cloud PLM license billed on a subscription-based pricing model. Some software vendors may offer a month-to-month payment structure (not paid annually) for a slight increase in the monthly amount.

PLM software can also be locally installed, meaning that your company would purchase the software outright and likely incur a large cost upfront for the licensing, implementation, and training. This cost will vary greatly depending on the number of users, the level of implementation, the amount of any included support, and more.

Talk with a software advisor
Talk with an advisor
Get a free consultation from an independent software expert.
Or, call toll-free: (800) 827-1151
Talk with a software advisor
Talk with an advisor