[ChrisH]

PDM (Product Data Management)

PDM is one of the biggest areas you will have problems with when using CAD. It means keeping track of information that has been generated in CAD. Which parts have been designed and which haven't? Which are ready for manufacture (released is the term we use at work) and which are still being worked on? What models were used for a "study" where you are just trying to figure out what will work, and which are for "real" parts? Is this the "current" version of the part? Have any changes (there are always changes) been incorporated into the design and what were they?

All of these questions need to be addressed by a PDM system. BTW it doesn't have to be a full blown computer aided system that automatically directs designs to the people that need to approve them, like the one we use at work. A paper parts list with check boxes will work. But it does need to be updated regularly, easy to understand, and readily accessible to anybody who needs it.

ChrisH