As an engineer or designer, managing data is an essential part of your job. From design files to project documents, the amount of data you produce can be overwhelming. Imagine SOLIDWORKS as a single book. As you created more files you will have more piles of books and when you reached a larger collection of the files, it will turn into libraries.
A library is a collection of the piles of books of different categories each with its own types and kinds. To make them easy to access, the library system is used to store and manage them. Here goes the SOLIDWORKS PDM role, it stores and manages your design files securely for easy retrieval when you need it. There are many ways how it could benefit you and your team in product design management.
What is SOLIDWORKS PDM and How Does It Work
SOLIDWORKS is a Computer Aided Design software that is used to create designs intended for prototyping, planning, visual ideation, feasibility design and project management. SOLIDWORKS utilises Product Data Management (PDM) solutions to manage a system that allows you to manage your design files and related documents effectively. It is integrated with the SOLIDWORKS CAD software and holds anything beyond the design and drawing files. Technically, SOLIDWORKS PDM operates in client-server architecture and manages users’ data including their access directly from the data vault.
When a user creates or modifies a file, SOLIDWORKS PDM automatically captures the changes and stores them in the system. This ensures that all modifications are tracked and can be easily reverted if necessary. The system also provides extensive search capabilities, allowing users to quickly find the files they need based on various criteria, such as file name, metadata, or even the content within the files themselves.
Understanding the Benefits of SOLIDWORKS PDM
SOLIDWORKS PDM has many benefits that make it an essential tool for any engineering or design team. One of the most significant benefits is the ability to manage and control your design files effectively. It allows you to store your files in a centralized location, making it easy to access and collaborate on projects. You can track changes to your files, manage revisions, and ensure that everyone is working on the latest version.
Apart from that, SOLIDWORKS PDM allows you to automate your workflows too. This means that you can set up processes that automatically move files through different stages of your design process. For example, you could set up a workflow where files are automatically sent to a reviewer for approval before they are released to production.
Key Considerations When Choosing SOLIDWORKS PDM
Generally, there are 3 types of SOLIDWORKS PDM products.
- SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard
- SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional
- SOLIDWORKS Manage
*You may find out more in-depth SOLIDWORKS PDMs product comparison and analysis here
Before starting with the product selection, you are highly advised to study and analyse your data management requirement before choosing the suitable product for you. We have summarised few steps to assist you in choosing the right package for you. There are several key factors to keep in mind.
1. Size of your team/organisation
First, consider how big is the size of your team or department that is going to utilise the program. If you are a small to medium-sized business, the standard version of SOLIDWORKS PDM may be sufficient. However, if you are in a bigger industry with more complex workflows, the professional version may be a better fit.
2. Understanding specific needs
Next, consider your specific needs. You may plan and foresee what do you expect from data management for SOLIDWORKS. Ask questions if whether you need to integrate with other third-party applications? If not now maybe in the future. Do check if you need to automate your workflows? Understanding your specific needs will help you choose the right package for you and your team.
3. Scalability
Another important consideration is scalability. As your organization grows, the data management requirements may evolve as well. SOLIDWORKS PDM offers a scalable solution, allowing you to easily add more users and expand the system’s capabilities as needed. It is important to choose a solution that can accommodate your current needs while offering room for future growth.
Exploring the Pricing and Packages of SOLIDWORKS PDM
SOLIDWORKS PDM has several pricing packages available, depending on the version and number of licenses you need. SolidWorks PDM pricing is based on a subscription model, which includes software licenses, maintenance, and technical support. The exact pricing may vary depending on the edition and the number of users required.
The standard package of SOLIDWORKS PDM starts from base price at $765 and varies depending on your role on how you want to use them. If you are existing or purchasing SOLIDWORKS Pro Version, it may be included in the subscription. The Professional PDM however might need to be purchased as standalone product. You may refer to our experts to learn more about the product packages. There are also enterprise-level packages available, which offer more advanced features and scalability.
Factors to Consider When Evaluating the Cost of SOLIDWORKS PDM
When evaluating the cost of SOLIDWORKS PDM, it is important to consider the potential return on investment (ROI) from the implementation. While the upfront cost for the data management solution may seem significant, the long-standing benefits and cost savings can outweigh the initial investment. SOLIDWORKS PDM solutions can help you avoid costly errors and mistakes which saves time and budget ensuring your projects is delivered on time. This shall increase productivity in the long run which lead to significant cost savings and improved efficiency.
SOLIDWORKS PDM users were also found having better coordination with PDM Automation against their own machines and servers. It reduced dependability to the server’s bandwidth which results in lesser juice squeezed from the system. This has significantly improved SOLIDWORKS performance by miles.
Eliminate manual processes as you work with projects with streamlined workflow in PDM solutions. This helps you cut the bills and focus on critical areas using SOLIDWORKS PDM automation to increase productivity and efficiency.
Additionally, SOLIDWORKS PDM enables better collaboration and communication among team members, ensuring compliance with the local authorities and data security, which can mitigate the risk of fines, lawsuits, and intellectual property theft. The cost of potential legal issues or data breaches far outweighs the investment required for implementing SOLIDWORKS PDM.
Why SOLIDWORKS PDM is the Cost-Effective Solution for Efficient Data Management
SOLIDWORKS PDM is an essential tool for any engineering or design workforce. It offers a comprehensive set of features and tools that can significantly improve productivity and efficiency within the community. The centralized repository, collaboration capabilities, and revision control functionalities help streamline workflows and reduce the risk of errors while its ability to manage and control design files effectively and automate tasks makes it a cost-effective solution for efficient data management.
In a Nutshell
Explore SOLIDWORKS PDM, a vital tool for engineers and designers managing data efficiently. Operating in a client-server architecture, it tracks changes to design files and offers robust search capabilities for quick retrieval. Choose the right package by considering team size, specific needs, and scalability. With various pricing options, SOLIDWORKS PDM proves to be a cost-effective solution for streamlined workflows and improved data management. Take the first step to enhance your productivity by exploring SOLIDWORKS PDM today!
If you are considering purchasing SOLIDWORKS PDM, we recommend starting with our guide where we delve further down into the enhanced key features for each of the product in SOLIDWORKS PDM solutions. This guide is tailored according to your specific requirements and helps identify the right solution and ensure that you get the most out of this powerful data management tool.
