PLM Implementation: A Simple Guide for Brands and Retailers

A well-executed PLM strategy can result in better alignment and forecasting with market demands and obstacles that come up at every stage of product development. Having a solid base for your product lifecycle strategy is the first step in proper PLM implementation.

A clear plan, cross-functional collaboration and strategic decision-making set the stage for a smooth rollout and ensure your business reaps the full benefits of a Product Lifecycle Management system. Here’s how to build that foundation.

• Define Clear Goals. The first step in any successful PLM implementation is to establish clear objectives from the beginning. Objectives may be to reduce time-to-market, improve margins, enhance collaboration between teams, or improve supply chain visibility. These goals will determine how your PLM systems work from the top down, so it’s important to get clear on them from the start.
• Involve Key Stakeholders. Successful PLM implementation requires buy-in and collaboration across multiple teams, including product development, supply chain, IT and executive leadership.
• Select the Right PLM Solution. Choosing the right PLM platform is pivotal. Your solution should align with your industry’s specific needs, integrate seamlessly with existing tools and offer scalability to grow with your business. Not all PLM platforms are the same, so it’s important to again identify which features and benefits are most important to your bottom line.
• Plan for Data Consolidation. Migrating existing data into a new PLM system can be one of the most challenging aspects of implementation. Start by auditing your current data sources, including spreadsheets, legacy systems and manual records.
• Establish Realistic Timelines and Budgets. Set a clear timeline for your PLM implementation, including milestones for each phase of the rollout. Be realistic—overly ambitious timelines can lead to stress and rushed decisions that result in errors and delays down the road.
• Prepare Departments for Change. PLM implementation represents a significant change for your organization. This can mean clearly communicating pros and cons of a PLM platform, providing necessary training and building a support system that encourages learning and growth.
• Gather Feedback. Once the system is live, continuously monitor its performance against your initial goals. Use metrics like time-to-market reduction, collaboration improvements and error rates to evaluate success.

Clear goals, a realistic blueprint and open lines of communication are the foundation of a good PLM implementation strategy. These areas are time-consuming and require effort on the part of key stakeholders, but it’s worth doing it right out of the gate.

Despite the clear competitive advantages of PLM software, many companies are hesitant to integrate PLM into their workflows because of significant obstacles to implementation. Here’s a look at those common challenges.

• Organizational Resistance to Change. Employees may be hesitant to adopt a new system, especially if they’re comfortable with existing tools like spreadsheets or legacy systems. Resistance often stems from fear of the unknown or a lack of understanding of the PLM system’s benefits.
• Data Migration Challenges. Migrating data into the new PLM system is one of the most technically complex aspects of implementation. Inconsistent, duplicate, or incomplete data can create delays and inaccuracies.
• Integration Complexity. Integrating the PLM system with existing tools, such as ERP, CAD and inventory management systems, can be challenging. Without seamless integration, businesses risk creating data silos and inefficiencies.
• Low or Slow User Adoption. Even with a technically sound system, low adoption rates can undermine the success of a PLM implementation.
• Unrealistic Expectations. Rushing implementation can lead to overlooked details, inadequate training and insufficient testing, resulting in issues post-launch.

Fortunately, each of these challenges can be overcome by following several key best practices when it comes to implementing a new PLM strategy.

Although PLM implementation is often complex, there are ways to make the process more manageable. Here are some strategies brands and retailers use to make PLM rollouts easier to handle at all stages of product development.

• Start with a Pilot Program. Before rolling out the PLM system organization-wide, begin with a pilot program focused on a specific product line, department, or process. A pilot allows you to test the system in a controlled environment, identify potential challenges and gather user feedback.
• Aim for an Agile Deployment. Rather than implementing the PLM system all at once, break the rollout into manageable phases. Prioritize high-impact features and processes first, allowing teams to adapt incrementally. This iterative approach minimizes disruption and enables continuous improvement.
• Invest in Practical Training and Support. One of the biggest barriers to successful PLM adoption is user unfamiliarity with the system. Effective training tailored to each department ensures that employees understand how the system benefits their work and feel confident using it.
• Communicate the Vision. Clear and open lines of communication are essential to build enthusiasm and reduce team friction and resistance. Explain how the PLM system aligns with the company’s goals, solves existing pain points and benefits individual roles.
• Set Clear KPIs. Establish measurable KPIs to track the success of the implementation. Examples include time-to-market reductions, collaboration improvements, or error rate decreases. Monitoring these metrics allows you to assess the system’s impact and make informed adjustments.
• Focus on Integration. Ensure the PLM system integrates seamlessly with existing tools, such as ERP, CAD and inventory management systems. Integration reduces data silos and provides a unified view of product development.

The best approach to PLM implementation combines a strategic phased rollout with strong training and communication so that the transition is manageable for all involved. As a result, your PLM platform will be empowering, accessible and focused on the long-term success of your business goals.

With careful preparation and implementation, PLM software can become a transformative asset for your organization with invaluable long-term benefits. A well-planned implementation strategy ensures your teams are aligned and ready to innovate, scale and stay competitive throughout the transition.

With Centric Software®, brands and retailers can integrate a “single source of truth” tool that seamlessly connects teams, workflows, data and product development goals into one easy-to-customize platform. Whether you produce goods in fashion and apparel, food and beverage, manufacturing, or cosmetics and personal care, Centric PLM empowers your teams to stay competitive in retail markets.