A Flow Graph of PLM, CRM, SCM and ERP during Product Life

I have been using this model for years to communicate and market with business stakeholders the interrelationsh ips between these four key business systems. All primary PLM suppliers should have their own version of this graph.

Chuck,
TLM, in most cases, is seen as a sub-component of the PLM system area in the shared graph. Do you see TLM fitting entirely within the PLM area? If no, does it deserve its won separate area in the shared graph or do you see it being primarily in the PLM area but with its own separate nodes extending into other non-PLM areas? If so, I would be interested in hearing your opinion.

I have lead/participated in integration efforts dealing with these four key business systems for over 20 years. My experience has been that TLM, although very important to consider, can not be treated at the same high business strategic level as PLM, ERP, SCM and CRM.

When time allows, I will try to publish another graph that adds additional visual understanding regarding key touch points between PLM, ERP, SCM and CRM.

Hi Jim - That's quite an endorsement for the graph. It made sense to me when I first saw it as I have been guilty of the " hand off" slide deck - PLM to ERP as well, which perhaps is appropriate for the integration points in detail, but it does not give the big picture to the stakeholders. Please publish the key touch points you have figured out from your experience, I think all parties would benefit! Thanks Jim for commenting and adding to the discussion - Steve Ammann

Hi John,
I see MES (assuming you mean Manufacturing Execution System) being contained mostly within the ERP system. It would be similar to, but not exactly the same as, how TLM would be a sub-system within PLM (see my comment #2 above). MES would reside mostly within the ERP part of the model with some offshoots extending outside of ERP. This differs from my mental model for PLM-TLM where TLM would be entirely contained with the PLM area of the model. How do you think the ERP-MES relationship should be shown in the model? If there should be off-shoot(s), what do you feel they are? Where do these off-shoots go in the model, i.e. sandwiched between the 4 key business systems?

John, I think you nailed it.

HI Yoann,
ERP can definitely be used up front and is by many companies.Many PLM systems are implemented with a product cost attribute. I think the product cost and obviously man hours and other financial controlling info should be in ERP ( as the master data) but product cost should be shared with PLM. One of the integration points that should be set up, as well as others.
Thanks for contributing to the blog,
Steve Ammann