Product Data Management
The discipline and systems for managing engineering data — CAD files, drawings, BOMs, and specifications — typically within the engineering department, as a predecessor to or subset of PLM.
Why it matters
PDM systems solved the file management and revision control problem for engineering; PLM extends that scope to the full product lifecycle including manufacturing, quality, and supply chain.
External References
This term appears in
Cite this definition
Finocchiaro, Michael. “Product Data Management.” DemystifyingPLM PLM Glossary, 2026, https://www.demystifyingplm.com/glossary/product-data-management