Food and beverage manufacturers can only reap the benefits of a PLM if they prepare for success. A company has four needs to keep in mind:
1. Resources For a Software License
PLM platforms help some of the biggest companies in the world manage every aspect of their product catalogs. Small, family-run businesses don’t need this kind of capability — nor do they have the resources to manage it. In fact, for companies that have less than $10 million in annual revenue, it may not be worthwhile to pay for a PLM software license. Data silos and communication difficulties in companies with less than 50 employees can usually be resolved with simple technology fixes.
2. An Implementation Strategy
For companies ready for PLM, developing an implementation strategy is key to seeing tangible benefits. Establish specific goals you hope to achieve with the new system, such as improving development cycle time or increasing the number of products in production. Identify a timeline for moving all of your data into a platform and outline exactly how it will be used in your processes.
3. Project Leads And Stakeholders
No new technology investment will be worthwhile without effective leaders. Determine who will ultimately be responsible for overseeing implementation, as well as its ongoing use in daily operations. Someone, usually a project manager, will need to ensure employees are consistent in how they use the platform. This includes correctly updating databases, communicating with other team members in the system, and completing tasks that trigger workflow automations. They also need to be able to serve as a resource for employees with questions about the PLM and how to use it.
4. A Well-Trained Team
Finally, leaders need to solicit buy-ins from the employees expected to use the platform every single day. This includes training on how to use the software, as well as education on why it’s so important to follow protocol. Employees need to see a personal benefit to their organization, productivity, and clarity in order to change their behavior and fully adopt the technology.
Revalize’s software offers a suite of solutions to manufacturers encompassing every aspect of product lifecycle and data management, including design, quoting, sourcing, and even sales. With one of the few PLM solutions specifically designed for the F&B industry, Revalize’s advanced technology also provides implementation and training services for a seamless transition. See how the platform can help your company by scheduling a free demo with one of our experts.
