Chapter 3: Industrial experiences

Title: Space products lifecycle management: new frontiers for PLM

Author(s): Julien Feyeux, Mohamed-Ali El-Hani

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Reference: International Conference on Product Lifecycle Management 2007 pp. 193 - 198

Abstract/Summary: This paper aims at putting PLM in perspective in a non-traditional field, such as space. Maturing sectors like Aeronautics and Automobile have much in common with the space industry. The article will build upon these similarities to identify differences and provide recommendations based on the experience gained in more traditional sectors. Three steps are used in this process: (1) major areas of a PLM approach are identified; (2) metrics regarding similarities and differences between sectors are described; (3) customization of the PLM approach is detailed for each area according to criteria at hand. Main findings include: (a) low product population imply less configuration management needs; (b) the need for high reliability requires extensive and severe testing and standards enforcement; (c) a strong need exists for enterprise PLM systems scalability, due to a diversification of space programs from space agencies to private companies.

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