Episode Summary

Professor Jörg Fischer shares his journey from mechanical engineering to becoming a leading expert in PLM and digitalization. The discussion explores how understanding Bill of Materials (BOM) structures reveals a company's operational framework, the challenges of master data management in ERP systems, and the shift from Engineering to Order (ETO) to Configure to Order (CTO) strategies. The conversation highlights how traditional systems struggle with lifecycle management and explores innovative concepts like "part proxies" that could transform manufacturing flexibility.

Key Takeaways

• The BOM as a Company's Framework: Understanding BOM structures reveals how information flows through an organization
• AI Requires Quality Data First: Before AI can transform manufacturing, companies must establish strong data foundations
• Master Data Limitations: Traditional ERP systems often lack flexibility in handling master data that changes throughout product lifecycles
• Part Proxy Revolution: The concept of "part proxies" could allow companies to maintain engineering consistency while enabling manufacturing flexibility
• Global Factory Networks: Post-pandemic supply chain challenges are driving companies to create distributed manufacturing networks that require new approaches to parts management
• PLM-ERP Integration: The line between PLM and ERP systems is blurring as companies need seamless information flow from design to production

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to PLM and Digital Integration

01:09 Jörg Fischer's Career Journey

05:51 Understanding Companies through BOM Structures

09:13 The Evolution of BOM and Digitalization

11:41 AI and Data Management in Manufacturing

13:52 Challenges with Master Data in ERP Systems

18:13 The Importance of Revisioning in Manufacturing

20:35 Engineering to Order vs. Configure to Order

25:08 The Concept of Part Proxy in Engineering

28:17 Challenges in Manufacturing and Local Content

31:06 The Importance of Flexible Supply Chains

34:03 Integrating PLM and ERP Systems

36:55 The Role of Plant BOMs in Modern Manufacturing

39:48 The Future of Product Development and Systems Engineering

43:47 The Evolution of PLM and ERP Systems

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