Chapter 9: PLM Survey

Title: Product lifecycle management for global market: case studies of Japanese firms

Author(s): Young Won Park, Paul Hong, Takeshi Abe, Satoshi Goto

Address: Waseda Institute for Advanced Study, Waseda University, Japan | Information Operations and Technology Management, College of Business Administration, University of Toledo, USA | Parametric Technology Corporation, Japan | Parametric Technology Corporation, Japan

Reference: International Conference on Product Lifecycle Management 2009 pp. 459 - 469

Abstract/Summary: In this rapidly changing business environment, Japanese firms have put much emphasis on effective product lifecycle management (PLM) for sustainable competitive advantages in the global market. In this paper we present a research model of product lifecycle management that depicts the essential elements of PLM in terms of processes and outcomes. Selected four case studies of large Japanese firms examine the business practices that support their global market strategy through specific PLM practices which include data exchanges, design knowledge management, supplier integration and Bill of Materials (BOM) design. These case studies suggest that PLM practices are differently implemented according to strategic focus, product and market characteristics. Lessons from the case studies are discussed as well.

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