IBM to Launch PLM for Medium-size Businesses

IBM's new PLM Express is an integrated suite of PLM [product lifecycle management] software that they're calling "Collaborative Generative Design." [It rolls off the tongue nicely, but has too many syllables -- 10 of 'em.]

It's based on CATIA V5. IBM says the reason is "to capitalize on previous projects and proven designs." My question is, "Whose previous designs?" Clearly not ones based on NX or AutoCAD or Pro/E. (STEP is provided to import drawings from other CAD packages.) No, the real reason for using CATIA is because that's what IBM sells. Or, as the press release notes later, "CATIA V5 and SMARTEAM are both IBM PLM solutions developed by Dassault Systèmes."

As other CAD vendors are doing, IBM customers can add Profile Packs to customize the duties of the PLM software. Taking a page from Autodesk's PLM ideas, "companies of any size can start small but add function as their needs and skills evolve."

And of course, there's the real money maker: "With the introduction of IBM Financing Advantage, the total solution, including implementation services, can be financed more easily than ever before." Or, as I explain to my kids about the danger of financing, "More expensively than ever before." And "implementation services" is code for IBM's lucractive consulting business.

Earlier...

...I had written:

IBM's Product Lifecycle Management division will be launching its PLM Express Portfolio -- designed and priced for medium-sized businesses. More details will be released to analysts later next week, with the official announcement some time later.

I wonder if the product was developed by IBM, or licensed by them from Dassault (their CAD partner) or another firm.