20 Best SaaS PLM Solutions in 2024

You have an idea that you believe can benefit your organization and your target demographics. But how do you see it through from inception to production and distribution? There is always a whiteboard and tons of loose sheets of paper and notebooks filled with diagrams, plans, and schedules.

Even if the above-mentioned works for you, it may not be as efficient as you want it to be. There is the ever-present risk of losing track of plans and goals. In addition, there’s the possibility of losing a file or a note that you took on paper. You can prevent these scenarios with the best SaaS PLM software.

With software that lets you manage your PLM from the cloud, you can keep your files safe. Plus, you can access them whenever you need them, even when you are on the go. And best of all, you can keep everything organized. This article lists the top PLM applications that can help you do these things and more.

Consumers now have access to digital tools that allow them to expedite tasks and manage day-to-day activities. Such examples are different types of project management software. These are good for personal projects and to-do lists. This is why they know that it is more than possible for companies to work fast. Indeed, consumers have raised their expectations of companies. Seventy percent of customers expect companies to offer more personalized products. Plus, 68% require that these items are produced at the fastest pace possible while maintaining high quality.

It is a tough challenge, especially when you have competitors that are also working fast to beat the rest in launching new products. But a rapid time-to-market can only be possible when teams are organized and coordinated and plans are set and followed well. This makes SaaS PLM software essential, as they have the tools necessary to manage everything, from ideas and roadmaps to product marketing and launches.

To be more specific, organizations use PLM features to oversee product designs, manage engineering operations where necessary, organize portfolios, simulate products, test products, and manufacture items. PLM applications are popular across many industries such as automotive, industrial equipment, and transportation. So it is no wonder the SaaS PLM market value hit $5.2 billion in 2021. There are many players in the field but here is a shortlist that you can refer to for faster decision-making.

What are the challenges of adopting SaaS PLM solutions?

While SaaS PLM solutions offer numerous advantages, such as scalability, flexibility, and lower upfront costs, businesses may face some challenges during adoption. Understanding these potential hurdles can help organizations prepare and mitigate risks effectively.

• Integration with Existing Systems: One of the primary challenges is integrating the new PLM system with existing software solutions, such as ERP, CRM, and supply chain management systems. Legacy systems may not be compatible with the SaaS PLM platform, requiring additional customization or adjustments.
• Data Migration and Management: Migrating data from old systems into a new SaaS PLM platform can be complex. Ensuring data integrity, accuracy, and completeness is critical, and the migration process often requires a well-defined strategy to avoid data loss or inconsistencies.
• User Adoption and Training: Implementing any new software comes with a learning curve, and SaaS PLM is no exception. Employees may resist change, especially if they are accustomed to legacy systems. Adequate training and support drive user adoption and ensure smooth implementation.
• Customization and Flexibility: While SaaS PLM platforms offer customization options, they might not always be as flexible as on-premise solutions. Some businesses may find it challenging to tailor the software to their unique needs, especially in industries with specific regulatory or operational requirements.
• Data Security and Privacy Concerns: Storing sensitive product data on the cloud can raise security concerns. Companies must ensure the SaaS PLM provider follows stringent security protocols and complies with industry regulations, especially in highly regulated industries like healthcare and automotive.

List of Best SAAS PLM Solutions

1. monday.com

monday.com may be known as a project management software, but it can be your all-around product lifecycle management solution. It has all the tools you need to oversee products from the idea stage to design and manufacturing, sales, and retirement. The platform is customizable, so you can change it according to your needs.

Since everything is in one place, your team can collaborate efficiently. Everyone is aligned when it comes to plans, roadmaps, and challenges. Every member of the product lifecycle management can also view KPIs. With everyone being informed of the goings-on, they can act on their end to ensure that goals are met and that the KPIs become healthy again. This visibility also allows team members to know whether they should move forward with a project or press pause. Additionally, monday.com is a visual platform. This makes it easy for your team to spot deadlines or task progress.

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Furthermore, monday.com can help you capture what users are saying. You can log every exchange with customers in the solution, be they in the form of calls, surveys, or emails. But the best thing about it is that you can start free and scale up when you need more seats.

2. SAP PLM

SAP PLM is a system that provides companies with more visibility and control when it comes to their product lifecycle tasks. This is because the cloud-based software has a comprehensive portfolio management feature that is tied to project management and resource management and optimization. This allows you to manage projects and tasks as well as oversee timelines from a central place. Thus, with centralized processes and information, you can have a faster time to market.

Moreover, the solution has a product cost calculation and simulation feature. The flexible interface lets you run real-time calculations and simulations so that you can reach target costing. Plus, the platform enables you to check product marketability and compliance through the tracking of regulated substances.

3. Siemens Teamcenter PLM

Siemens Teamcenter PLM is a SaaS PLM software solution praised by its customer base for its comprehensive set of features. This includes design management, simulation management, content management, and document management. It also helps users handle requirements, calculate product costs, and perform system engineering better. Moreover, these features are quite easy to use. The platform is also fitted with automation tools to keep workflows streamlined and workers free of repetitive menial tasks.

Siemens Teamcenter PLM also includes financial management features such as a budget planning tool. Moreover, it helps users coordinate different functions together, thanks to its collaboration tools that can also be extended for suppliers’ use. Plus, the product integrates with systems such as Oracle E-Business Suite. The product’s deployment is configured to your needs. So, it is only made available via quote-based plans.

4. Autodesk Vault

Autodesk Vault is among the best PLM system solutions today. It rolls both collaborative product design and product lifecycle management features into one platform. Hence, it has become very popular among those in the tech industry. Features include BOM management, direct CAD injection, quality management, revision control, and quality management. Moreover, it also has features for in-house and even supplier collaboration. The product also contains features for streamlining PDM workflows and custom reporting.

Also, Autodesk Vault is mobile-ready. You can access design features on both Android and iOS devices quite easily. So, you can take your work on the go. Plus, the platform can seamlessly integrate with other tools such as Civil 3D and Microsoft Office. Pricing starts at $335 per year.

5. Infor PLM Discrete

Infor PLM Discrete is a SaaS PLM solution designed especially for discrete manufacturing businesses of all sizes. It is popular because of its interoperability with other systems such as CAD and ERP products. Key integrations include those with VISUAL and SyteLine, among others. Aside from its design module, it has powerful features for product management, cost management, and change management.

Moreover, it is also prized for its automated workflows and advanced analytics. Of course, just like other top solutions, it likewise has good collaboration tools. Also, the platform is quite customizable. You can have your digital work areas personalized. With Infor PLM Discrete, you’ll be able to craft a PLM solution that would be a perfect fit for your needs.

6. Infor PLM Optiva

Infor PLM Optiva is another PLM software tool from Infor that is specially designed for process manufacturing companies. Hence, it provides management features for bulk manufacturing that complies with internal and other regulatory standards. Key features include project management, product management, data management, data analysis, resource management, and workflow management.

Moreover, the platform is also known for its wide range of intuitive data visualizations that help users get a bird’s eye view of their operations and drill down into complex product designs. Also, Infor PLM Optiva integrates with other third-party solutions, including SAP and M3. As it is deployed according to your needs, the product is only available via personalized quote-based plans.

7. PTC Creo PLM

PTC Creo PLM is another go-to PLM system solution, thanks to its comprehensive features and state-of-the-art 3D part and assembly design module. This module allows users to create technical 2D drawings, use parametric and freestyle surfacing, design mechanisms, and design for ergonomics, among others. It even has Multi-CAD and reverse engineering capabilities. Moreover, it provides core simulation features. With these, users will be able to plan and design their products of any complexity from scratch or from previous models.

The platform also allows for multiple profiles so users can collaborate quite easily. Also, PTC Creo PTM is flexible as well. It allows users to customize commands, menus, and its interface. Thus, you can easily make the software your very own. Additionally, it integrates with other tools as well such as CATIA, Autodesk Inventor, and SolidWorks, among others. It also has an app for iOS devices that you can use to design products with the aid of augmented reality. Pricing for this product starts at $2,200 per individual subscription.

8. Oracle Agile PLM

Oracle Agile PLM is a PLM SaaS suite known to offer one of the most comprehensive sets of features today. The product is used by businesses of all sizes from a wide array of industries. Business users range from consumer goods producers to pharmaceutical companies. Key product features include product collaboration, product record management, and product lifecycle analysis. The platform also provides portfolio management, variant management, and customer needs management capabilities.

Moreover, it allows access to AutoVue Enterprise Visualization. This enables users to view and collaborate on documents securely. Furthermore, users can access Oracle Agile PLM features using their mobile devices. Also, thanks to its open API, you can connect it to virtually any digital platform. However, the product is only available via custom quotes.

9. PTC Windchill

PTC Windchill is a comprehensive PLM software tool. It provides companies with end-to-end solutions from product planning and design to marketing and product retirement. Its features include product management, design details, reliability management, quality management, design generation, and process management. It also comes with financial management tools such as cost estimation and analysis. Moreover, the platform provides intelligence tools, including advanced analytics and intuitive visualizations.

The product has frictionless integrations with third-party software such as Autodesk and AutoCAD, among many others. The software provider offers PTC Windchill via three-tiered plans. However, all three are available via quote-based plans.

10. Dassault ENOVIA

Dassault ENOVIA is a 3DEXPERIENCE-powered collaboration solution for PLM. The cloud-based product allows users to manage different PLM processes under one roof. It comes with end-to-end solutions, ranging from product development to intelligence. Key features include design management, BOM management, project management, and total quality management. It also has high-tech design capabilities and supports global product development operations. With these, Dassault ENOVIA became a go-to software option for many.

Moreover, it has native integrations with other solutions such as popular CAD systems. As the platform is often designed to fit your particular needs and preferences, it is only available by personalized quote.

11. Upchain PLM

Upchain PLM is an intuitive PLM software. It is known for providing affordable pricing and flexible features deployment. Moreover, it is prized for its easy-to-use collaboration features. Core Upchain PLM features include built-in project management templates, task dependencies, BOM management, compliance, and ECR creation. It also provides plugins for CAD software tools. It also has automated parts numbering for convenient tracking. And, like other top solutions, it supports full revision control.

You can integrate Upchain PLM with other platforms such as eDrawings, AutoCAD, PTC Creo, and Inventor. It has frictionless integrations with Microsoft applications as well. For those interested, it is available in three paid plans. Upchain PLM pricing starts at $20 per user per month.

12. Roadmunk

Roadmunk is a PLM solution that helps companies bring together marketing and product management teams. Aside from its stellar and highly-usable collaboration tools, it has features for branding, sharing, and task prioritizations. Moreover, it provides users with a private cloud for secure data and communications, complete with data importation capabilities. With these, users can coordinate with each other to mesh different PLM processes together. On top of this, it is also billed as a “boardroom-ready” platform. This is because it is fitted with feedback tools for stakeholders. Thus, stakeholders can get involved in the PLM process.

Additionally, Roadmunk has integrations with other project management tools such as Jira and Trello. Pricing starts at a very affordable $19 per month. It comes with unlimited product roadmaps and views.

13. Electronic Work Instructions

Electronic Work Instructions is a document generation SaaS solution used for product lifecycle management. It is perfect for organizations that are document-driven and highly standardized. The product allows users to quickly create work instructions. These can be useful in creating product designs, product management strategies, and many more. Users may also use the software to create technical documents and training materials. Also, users are allowed to include visuals such as videos for better engagement and retention.

Other key features include streamlining, version control, data centralization, content visualization, and feedback management. Moreover, it provides admins with total control over setting up permission-based access for users. The product also has reporting tools, including those for data production and analysis. Moreover, it can integrate well with other platforms, thanks to its API offering. For pricing, the vendor offers plans starting at $299 per month.

14. Serena Business Manager

Serena Business Manager is a go-to process management solution specially designed for IT product lifecycle management. It enables teams to optimize their workflows using productivity tools and automation capabilities. The platform provides a unified work center that enhances teamwork and keeps data and files secure in one location.

Features include an intuitive Kanban view for agile project management and an app composer for designs and road-mapping. It also has a smart search function for easy discoverability. Also, Serena Business Manager can be accessed via its mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices. This product is available via quote-based plans.

15. Autodesk Fusion Lifecycle

Autodesk Fusion Lifecycle, as its name suggests, enables companies to align different PLM functions. The product is fitted with tools to help users streamline their workflows. These include a central hub for easy collaboration, approvals, and giving out directions. Core features include lifecycle control, change management, product data management, quality management, and a BOM view. It likewise has a supplier collaboration feature useful for orders, payments, and supplier relationship management.

A Fusion 360 app is available for download for both iOS and Android users. They can use this to collaborate on designs. Pricing for this product begins at $75 per user monthly.

16. Elbats MES

Elbats MES is a go-to digital software solution that combines both manufacturing management and product lifecycle management software features. It is specially designed for small and medium-sized manufacturing companies and factories, which largely make up its core users. Key Elbats MES features include production management, purchasing management, source tracking, raw materials monitoring, critical component tracking, materials grading, quality management, sales management, and delivery control. It truly is an end-to-end solution for manufacturing SMEs.

Moreover, it also has reporting module fitted with advanced analytics and a KPIs dashboard. Additionally, it provides a useful predictive maintenance management module similar to those offered by facility management software. In this way, users will be able to be on top or even ahead of equipment or facility breakdowns. Elbats MES is available via personalized quotes.

17. Lectra Fashion PLM

Lectra Fashion PLM is a specialized PLM solution made for businesses in the fashion industry. It offers teams a great collaboration platform with intuitive communication tools. Together with tasks and product roadmap features, it provides users ways to streamline processes, from product design to managing production value chains. Core features include material development, calendar management, and product development. It also has collection planning, color management, and creative design features.

The above-mentioned aside, Lectra Fashion PLM is fitted with pre-production and sourcing management tools. The solution is also known and praised for being highly scalable. This makes it popular among fashion companies of all sizes. Lectra Fashion PLM is deployed according to your particular needs. As such, it is only available via personalized plans.

18. Skyjed

Skyjed is an all-in-one SaaS product lifecycle management and product governance solution. The system is prized for unifying all data points across the product lifecycle and portfolio to create a single source of truth. It offers end-to-end solutions, from product design to product insights. And, all of these are fitted in an easy-to-use code-free collaborative interface.

Key features include product design canvas, event scheduler, automated product risk workflows, design lifecycle management, design collaboration, and approval workflow. Thanks to its API, you can also integrate Skyjed with any app to make processes more streamlined and extend the functionalities of the platform. The product has a free starter plan that you can try out right. Paid plans start at $69 per month.

19. LoopedIn (formerly Productstash)

LoopedIn, formerly called Productstash, is an agile road-mapping solution for product lifecycle management. It provides users with tools to create beautiful, eye-catching, and intuitive product roadmaps to keep teams on the same page. Moreover, it is straightforward to create one in the program, thanks to its easy drag-and-drop controls. The product is also fitted with collaboration tools that allow users to submit ideas and provide updates about products. Not only that, it also keeps stakeholders and customers looped in.

Key features include public roadmaps, idea submission, idea voting, workflow customization, and agile road-mapping. The product is currently working to integrate seamlessly with Jira and Slack. Additionally, the platform has a free plan available. So, you can take a look at the features and feel for yourself. Paid pricing starts at $4.99 per editor per month, paid annually.

20. Product HQ

Product HQ is a road-mapping solution for product lifecycle management. It is easy to use and has an intuitive dashboard. This, together with its comprehensive road-mapping features, makes it popular among SMEs and freelancers. The platform is also specially designed for software product development. This SaaS PLM software tool offers the following key features: team communication, idea collection, product roadmap, public roadmap, feature prioritization, and feature tracking.

Currently, Product HQ is working on creating integrations for other third-party solutions. These include Jira and Zendesk. For pricing, the product is only available by personalized quotes.

Choose the Right SaaS PLM Solution for Your Company

Cost is a great factor in any business decision, especially for companies that want the best tools without hurting the books. PLM SaaS is one of those organizational solutions where the price tag may have to take a back seat in terms of priority. After all, when it can help you reach the target, you can reap its benefits, specifically the profits from a product or service you have launched. And more so when you manage to beat the competition.

Still, there are PLM software that tick the right boxes, including cost. One such solution is monday.com. This is an intuitive software that you can customize in every way. Though it looks like a project management application on the outside, it is very versatile and very much capable of handling product lifecycles. You can create roadmaps, keep an eye on KPIs, and collaborate with all teams involved in the creation of a product. The latter is beneficial, as it can be difficult to track communications through email. Truly, project management software can replace email communication. That is not all, though. With monday.com, you can also learn from your past product lifecycles. Thus, you can know better moving forward with other ideas.

Key Insights

• Cloud-Based Management: SaaS PLM software allows for secure and accessible cloud-based management of product lifecycle processes, reducing the risk of data loss and improving efficiency.
• Comprehensive Toolsets: Leading PLM solutions like monday.com, SAP PLM, and Siemens Teamcenter PLM offer a wide array of features, including design management, collaboration tools, and real-time data analytics.
• Industry Application: SaaS PLM is popular across various industries such as automotive, industrial equipment, fashion, and tech, enabling tailored solutions for specific manufacturing and production needs.
• Collaboration and Communication: Effective PLM tools facilitate seamless communication and collaboration among team members, suppliers, and stakeholders, ensuring that everyone is aligned and informed.
• Cost Management and Simulation: Advanced features like cost calculation, simulation, and predictive alerts help businesses manage expenses and improve decision-making processes.
• Customization and Flexibility: Solutions like monday.com and PTC Creo PLM offer high customization, allowing businesses to tailor the software to their specific needs and workflows.
• Mobile Access and Integration: Many PLM tools provide mobile apps and integrate with other essential software such as CAD tools, ERP systems, and project management platforms, enhancing overall productivity and accessibility.

FAQ

1. What is SaaS PLM software?
   SaaS PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) software is a cloud-based solution that helps businesses manage the entire lifecycle of a product, from conception and design to production and distribution.
2. Why is SaaS PLM important for businesses?
   SaaS PLM is important because it centralizes all product-related data, enhances collaboration, improves efficiency, reduces the risk of data loss, and accelerates time-to-market for new products.
3. What are some key features of leading SaaS PLM solutions?
   Key features include project management, design management, collaboration tools, real-time data analytics, cost simulation, customization options, and mobile access.
4. How does SaaS PLM improve collaboration and communication?
   SaaS PLM improves collaboration and communication by providing a central hub for all product-related activities, allowing team members, suppliers, and stakeholders to access and share information in real-time, ensuring alignment and informed decision-making.
5. Which industries benefit the most from SaaS PLM solutions?
   Industries such as automotive, industrial equipment, fashion, tech, and consumer goods benefit significantly from SaaS PLM solutions due to their complex product development and manufacturing processes.
6. Can SaaS PLM integrate with other software tools?
   Yes, many SaaS PLM solutions can integrate with other software tools like CAD software, ERP systems, project management platforms, and communication tools to enhance functionality and streamline workflows.
7. Is it possible to customize SaaS PLM software?
   Yes, solutions like monday.com and PTC Creo PLM offer high levels of customization, allowing businesses to tailor the software to their specific needs and workflows.
8. How does SaaS PLM help in managing product costs?
   SaaS PLM helps manage product costs by providing features like cost calculation, simulation, and predictive alerts, enabling businesses to make informed financial decisions and control expenses effectively.
9. What mobile capabilities do SaaS PLM solutions offer?
   Many SaaS PLM solutions offer mobile apps that allow users to access and manage product lifecycle data on-the-go, enhancing productivity and flexibility for remote teams.
10. How can a business choose the right SaaS PLM solution?
    Businesses should consider factors such as the specific features offered, integration capabilities, customization options, cost, and the specific needs of their industry and operations when choosing a SaaS PLM solution. Trying out free trials, like those offered by monday.com, can also help in making an informed decision.

By Jenny Chang

Jenny Chang is a senior writer specializing in SaaS and B2B software solutions. Her decision to focus on these two industries was spurred by their explosive growth in the last decade, much of it she attributes to the emergence of disruptive technologies and the quick adoption by businesses that were quick to recognize their values to their organizations. She has covered all the major developments in SaaS and B2B software solutions, from the introduction of massive ERPs to small business platforms to help startups on their way to success.