The business case for choosing cloud-based SaaS PLM software
Manufacturers need to embrace product lifecycle management (PLM) solutions to support digital transformation initiatives. PLM tools integrate data and processes.
A cloud-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform allows for remote access to applications. As a result of increased availability, manufacturers have upgraded their PLM solution to SaaS. However, initially, it can be a challenge to fully understand the advantages of a cloud-based SaaS PLM.
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How to build a SaaS PLM solution
With a cloud-based SaaS PLM solution, the solution provider installs, maintains, and updates the PLM software on cloud data centers. The manufacturer isn't responsible for installing, managing, or updating install, manage, and needs.
With SaaS PLM, teams can add functionalities for short periods of time and only pay for the extra capacity when it is being used. This means manufacturers can start small, accessing and paying for only the capabilities that are necessary. This avoids large upfront costs for functionality manufacturers may never use.
Understanding on-premises PLM software solutions versus cloud services
PLM software solutions are classified as on-premises, cloud, or SaaS based on their accessibility. The accessibility determines its suitability.
With a client-operated cloud model, the data center is operated by a cloud provider. With a SaaS PLM solution, the solution provider installs, maintains, and updates the PLM solution on cloud data centers, so the manufacturer isn't responsible for installation, management, or updates.
To learn more about the categories and features of the PLM solutions available on the market today, download this eBook.
Shifting the IT burden
In addition to initial investments, manufacturers also need to consider IT costs. It can be capital-intensive to ensure that the on-premises or client-operated cloud PLM solution functions properly, especially without a dedicated IT staff. The provider is required to keep the software up to date and create solutions to any potential issues. Manufacturers must account for the time it takes to implement the solution once it is acquired. The IT staff must manage important PLM operational tasks on their own, which can quickly overload the team. Based on IT resources, initial deployment time can stretch over many days, if not weeks.
A SaaS PLM solution provider manages the hardware, solution tuning, and networking infrastructure. This minimizes having to devote precious resources to managing those functions.
SaaS PLM offers the solution to better achieve DX goals
Manufacturers should embrace SaaS PLM solutions to better achieve their DX goals. These solutions are being adopted for numerous reasons, including:
- SaaS PLM models have lower upfront costs than on-premises and client-operated cloud PLM models
- SaaS PLM provides quick, flexible, and easy access for remote stakeholders, with minimal ramp-up time
- The likelihood of data theft and product development-crippling malware is much less than with on-premises PLM
- SaaS PLM solutions are updated as often as every two weeks, and all updates are automatically performed by the solution provider
- A company can add contractors, consultants, or suppliers on a temporary basis without any permanent commitment
- A SaaS PLM solution provider manages the hardware, solution tuning, and networking infrastructure