What Can We Learn from Early Adopters of Cloud PLM?

Cloud PLM pioneers were generally risk-taking SMBs, ready to push the boundaries in order to accelerate growth in their organisation. They paved the way for others’ potential Cloud migration, and there’s plenty we have to thank them for. So, let’s take a look at the top lessons learned from the early adopters of Cloud PLM.

Ensure Stakeholder Support

Aligning IT with your Cloud strategy and expectations.

The most active stakeholders in the adoption of a Cloud PLM platform are expected to be your existing IT department. So, getting them onboard far in advance of implementation is an essential step in ensuring that the process goes as smoothly as possible.

It’s vital that your IT work in conjunction with your vendor on processes such as data migration. So, you’ll need to make sure that a productive dialogue is ongoing between these teams. For tips on how to get your team to embrace PLM check out our previous blog on this topic.

Consider Your Business Maturity

Providing support in the business areas that need it most.

PLM maturity will fluctuate throughout your business and it’s important to recognise the areas that need the most attention.  Conduct a thorough PLM Maturity assessment and highlight areas of your organisation that may need additional training and support. Doing so before your implementation begins will ensure that every area of the business is growth aligned.

Build a Security Framework

Taking the necessary measures to keep your data safe.

There are still plenty of common misconceptions around Cloud security, and many organisations continue to put off migration due to these. But the truth is that Security will always be a concern. It’s how you manage this concern that matters. Working with your IT department, you’ll need to put together a stringent Cloud Security Framework and ensure that this information is communicated clearly throughout the business.

There are various independent bodies working to keep up to the minute recommendations on security protocols, and your Cloud PLM vendor should be able to inform you on any and all of these. Check out the latest Gartner Cloud security report, “SaaS or Cloud Security: Manufacturers Must Apply Consistent Discretion.” for direction on this process.

Cost Out Your Options

Getting the best return on your investment

The promise of increased flexibility and scalability is undoubtedly a huge draw for any forward-thinking business. But every business has its own unique concerns and requirements which may lead you down a different implementation path.

PLM platforms come in all shapes and sizes. Between On-Premise and Public Cloud there are a range of hybrid options that may better suit your needs. If you’re not sure and need to know how to choose the right PLM for you, we recommend reaching out to an expert for advice.

Final Thoughts

Detailing the perfect platform for your business

As important as the implementation process itself, is prior consultation. To get the most out of your PLM platform, you’ll need to have had expert advice on the right solution for your specific requirements.

The biggest lesson we learned from early adopters of Cloud PLM, was to listen very carefully to stakeholders in each area of the organisation before offering a solution. And the more we listen, the more that you’ll get out of your PLM platform.