Examples of PLM Software
PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) software aims to centralize all data and processes related to each stage of a product’s lifecycle—from design to end-of-life.
These tools improve collaboration across departments (design, production, quality, maintenance...) by unifying product information in a single reference system. In doing so, they optimize product data management and support strategic decision-making.
In practice, a PLM software helps reduce communication errors, accelerate development cycles, and ensure document traceability throughout the project.
Given their usefulness, it’s no surprise that many PLM solutions have emerged on the market.
To help you get a better understanding, here are a few notable examples from leading PLM software providers.
Siemens NX
Among the most complete PLM systems available, Siemens NX stands out.
It is based on the concepts of digital twin and digital thread to connect and optimize design, simulation, and manufacturing processes.Siemens NX aims to provide a single source of product information for all stakeholders within a company.
The platform offers a rich feature set (BOM management, change tracking, project portfolio planning…) and can be deployed on-premise or in the cloud.It is suitable for organizations of all sizes, from SMEs to large enterprises needing to manage complex processes and large volumes of data.
Think Siemens might be right for you? Learn more in our article on alternatives to Siemens NX.
PTC Windchill
PTC Windchill is another major PLM platform, developed by PTC.
It provides a central product data repository and facilitates cross-team collaboration.For example, Windchill "enables capturing, configuring, and managing product information across the lifecycle, including BOM management."
This means all teams can access real-time product data, reducing information loss and delays.Windchill also includes modules for change management and validation workflows.
It is widely used in industries where traceability and configuration management are critical.
Want to explore alternatives to PTC Windchill? Check out our dedicated article.
Aletiq
Aletiq is a more recent French PLM solution, designed for SMEs and mid-sized industrial companies.
Unlike traditional, often on-premise PLM systems, Aletiq is 100% cloud-based, focusing on usability and faster deployment.Built to be intuitive and agile, Aletiq can be implemented in just a few weeks.
It acts as a single source of truth for a company’s technical data: it centralizes CAD files, BOMs, specifications, and quality requirements, while integrating seamlessly with existing systems (ERP, CAD...).With these examples of PLM software, you should now have a clearer view of the features these systems can offer.
Keep in mind that the choice of a PLM solution depends on your industrial context: each tool offers features suited to specific use cases.That said, all PLM solutions share a common goal: to centralize product information and facilitate collaboration across teams.While large industrial groups tend to prefer the established platforms, SMEs and mid-sized companies may choose lighter, more user-friendly solutions like Aletiq.
But large enterprises can adopt our solution too—LISI Aerospace, for example, has chosen Aletiq.In any case, a well-deployed PLM improves product development efficiency by reducing errors, speeding up time-to-market, and ensuring compliance with quality and traceability standards.
Looking to go further in your PLM search? Check out our article on free PLM software, or explore other comparisons:
• Alternatives to Solidworks
• Alternatives to Aras Innovator
• Alternatives to Autodesk
• Alternatives to Visiativ
