Application Lifecycle Management

Application Lifecycle Management (ALM) is a set of processes, tools, and practices that manage the entire software development lifecycle, from requirements gathering to deployment and maintenance. In the context of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), ALM integrates with PLM to provide a holistic approach to managing product data, collaboration, and knowledge across all stages of the product's life cycle.

Why it matters

Application Lifecycle Management (ALM) matters for PLM professionals and manufacturing engineers because it enables them to manage the entire product development process from concept to delivery, ensuring that products are designed, developed, tested, and delivered on time, within budget, and meeting quality and regulatory requirements.

Cite this definition

Finocchiaro, Michael. “Application Lifecycle Management.” DemystifyingPLM PLM Glossary, 2026, https://www.demystifyingplm.com/glossary/application-lifecycle-management