The PLM Debate
As part of our ongoing research programme, Cambashi is running a debate on product lifecycle management (PLM) and how it interfaces with the supply chain. Various IT vendors were invited to respond to a discussion paper : "In 2004, will PLM and SCM still be recognisable TLAs?" (a version of which was first published in the FT)

LMS response

Tom Curry, Corporate VP and Chief Marketing Officer

Our opinion is that spending on ERP, SCM, and CRM has been disproportionate to the impact these systems can have on real competitiveness, and that this will change. ERP, SCM, etc. primarily effect efficiency and cost savings, and these have a limit.

Competitiveness really has to do with brand values and innovation; a steady stream of innovative new products. We think PLM, and within it "CAE" or virtual prototyping, addresses maybe 80% of product cost (the costs are built in by the design) and has everything to do with brand values.

You can find out more about LMS on their website: www.lmsintl.com

If you have any feedback to add to this debate, please email plm@cambashi.com with the subject "PLM debate".