What Are the Different Types of Product Life Cycle Management Software?

The two primary types of product life cycle management software are programs that are used to manage a product's complete life cycle and those that are used only to manage operation, development, and optimization or maintenance. When product life cycle management software is used to manage entire life cycles, it can help users to manage factors such as inventory, pricing, and marketing. Software that is used only for management of operation, development, and optimization, on the other hand, is most commonly used by engineers and is often referred to as data management software. It also is common to find more specialized product life cycle management software, such as programs that focus on technology implementation, quality assurance, and lean management production.

When used correctly, product life cycle management software that is used to manage complete life cycles can help managers from all parts of a supply chain to prepare to deal with products. For example, by using this kind of software to plan, clients can be given useful marketing information that can help them to learn about specific uses of new products, some of which are not even available on the market. Likewise, managers can communicate with professionals who work in distribution and who need to know which inventory numbers to expect. Data management software, on the other hand, enables engineers to use functions such as computer aided drafting, which is helpful for creating three-dimensional plans.

Individuals who use more specialized product life cycle management software often have particular tasks they want to complete or a strict managerial philosophies. Technology implementation software, for example, might be helpful for clients who need assistance integrating new technology into preexisting workflows. For example, a software development company can provide clients with software that enables information technology professionals to view network maps and monitor performance of new programs.

Quality assurance product life cycle management software, on the other hand, is useful for professionals who are interested in setting goals and monitoring production to ensure that goals are met. For instance, professionals can use quality assurance software to ensure that production levels are optimal and that designs or plans are being followed precisely. This kind of software is also useful for monitoring employee performance.

Any professional who is interested in lean management aims to create a production cycle in which very little is wasted and in which there is always room for constant improvement. Lean product life cycle management software can enable users to monitor different aspects of a process to see which areas are least cost-effective. This kind of software also should enable users to optimize processes continually through out product cycles.