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PXM, PIM, PDM and PLM: What are the differences?
When searching for a suitable solution for product data management on Google and other search engines, you will find a wide range of software solutions and tools on offer. You will come across various terms relating to the topic of product (data), such as PXM, PIM, PDM and PLM. Finding out which system is best suited to the processes and structures of a company is no easy task. Each department has different needs and therefore a different focus on the data and information that comprise the company’s product.
In the world of product management and product development, four systems are often used: PXM, PIM, PDM and PLM (Product Experience Management, Product Information Management, Product Lifecycle Management and Product Data Management). Although they pursue similar goals, they have different focuses and functions. Here are the main differences between PXM, PIM, PDM and PLM:
PXM Product Experience Management
Definition: PXM refers to the management and optimisation of the entire product experience for customers across different channels. It is an advanced concept that builds on PIM.
Focus:
- Improving the product presentation and experience across all channels.
- Ensuring consistent and attractive product information and presentations.
- Customise product information to specific target groups and markets.
Key features:
- Omnichannel management
- Personalisation and localisation of product information
- Analysis of customer interactions and optimisation of product presentation based on customer feedback
Use Cases: PXM is mainly used in marketing and sales to improve the product experience for online shoppers.
Example: Improving the relevance and attractiveness of products for different target groups.
PIM Product Information Management
Definition: PIM is a system for the centralised management and provision of product information. It enables companies to maintain and distribute consistent, accurate and up-to-date product data across all sales channels.
Focus: The main focus of PIM is on the management and distribution of marketing and sales information for products. This includes product descriptions, images, technical specifications, prices and other marketing-relevant data:
- Centralisation of product information.
- Ensuring the consistency and accuracy of product data across all sales channels.
Main Features:
- Data aggregation and normalisation
- Management of product attributes and descriptions
- Integration with other systems such as ERP, CRM and e-commerce platforms
Use Cases: PIM is mainly used in the areas of marketing, sales and e-commerce to ensure consistent product presentation across different channels and to shorten time-to-market.
Example: An online retailer uses PIM to store product information centrally and use it on its website, in catalogues and in email campaigns.
PDM Product Data Management
Definition: PDM is a system for managing technical product data and documentation created during the design and development process. It focuses on the management of CAD files, parts lists and technical specifications.
Focus: The main focus of PDM is on the management and control of design data and documentation to ensure that everyone involved is working with the latest and most accurate information.
- Management of technical product data and documents.
- Support product development and design by centralising the storage and management of data.
Main Features:
- Storage and management of CAD files and technical drawings
- Version control and change management
- Integration with PLM systems
Use Cases: PDM is mainly used in R&D and engineering design to improve versioning, approval and collaboration on engineering documents.
Example: An engineering company uses PDM to manage CAD files and technical drawings, ensure that all engineers are working with the latest version and that changes can be tracked.
PLM Product Lifecycle Management
Definition: PLM is a comprehensive system for managing the entire life cycle of a product, from the concept phase through development and production to market launch and end-of-life management.
Focus: The main focus of PLM is on the integration and management of all information and processes associated with the entire life cycle of a product. This includes design, development, production, quality assurance and maintenance.
- Managing and optimising the entire life cycle of a product.
- Improving collaboration between different departments (e.g. design, production, marketing).
Main Features:
- Product development process management
- Version control and change management
- Integration with CAD systems and other development tools
- Documentation and compliance management
Use Cases: PLM is mainly used in the manufacturing industry to improve collaboration between different departments, optimise product development and increase innovation.
Example: A car manufacturer uses PLM to manage the development of a new vehicle model by integrating all data and processes from the initial concept drawing to production and maintenance.
PXM
Product information about
all sales channels and customer information:
- Online shops
- Marketplaces
- Social media
- Mobile apps
- Physical shops
- Devices
- Customer Behaviour
- Recessions
- Comments
PIM
Product information about product features:
- Descriptions
- Instructions
- Product specifications
- Stock
- Versions
- Models
- Prices
- Special offers
- Size and colour variants
- Metadata
PDM
Product data about product specifications:
- Dimensions
- Technical drawings
- Data sheets
- CAD data
- Assemblies
- Versioning
- Product structure
- Design data
- Manufacturing instructions
- Certifications
PLM
Information about the product life cycle:
- Concept
- Specifications
- Analyses
- Profitability
- Composition
- Test results
- Strategies
- Supply chain management
- Quality control reports
- Recycling data
Summary: PXM, PIM, PLM and PDM complement each other perfectly
Although PXM, PIM, PLM and PDM have different focuses, they complement each other and can be used together to comprehensively manage the entire product lifecycle and product information. Together and in combination with new technologies such as AI, they help to improve the efficiency and quality of product development and marketing – an essential factor for any company. As a result, the customer journey becomes a successful customer experience.