Siemens, PTC, and Dassault Systèmes Named Leaders in ABI Research's PLM Assessment for Large Discrete Manufacturers

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The Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) market has witnessed significant developments over the past year with the rise of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), digital twins, and Generative AI (Gen AI) becoming integral for large discrete manufacturers. ABI Research, a global technology intelligence firm, evaluated 10 PLM vendors and accompanying software to determine which solutions are sufficiently servicing the needs of large discrete manufacturers based on levels of innovation and implementation.

Although distinct in nature, large discrete manufacturers across eight industry verticals (A&D, Automotive, Electronics, Heavy Equipment, Industrial Machinery, Medical Devices, and Other Transportation) share commonalities that are dictating the market. "Large discrete manufacturers are favoring solutions that can be deployed as SaaS, have flexible payment structures, integrated Gen AI copilots, and do not require extensive modification and customization from system integrators or third-party value-added resellers (VARs)," states James Iversen, Industry Analyst.

Siemens, PTC, and Dassault Systèmes are the leading PLM vendors with their respective solutions, Teamcenter, Windchill, and Enovia. Siemens Teamcenter is the overall leader with standout scores coming from incorporating the largest partner ecosystem for external software integration, the highest market share for large discrete manufacturers, and an industry-leading Gen AI position with Teamcenter Copilot. PTC placed second with strengths in digital thread creation, product tracking through real-time updates, and a desirable customer support model for post-sale maintenance. Dassault Systèmes rounds out the leadership category, outperforming the market average by providing robust Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) capabilities, modular and role-based purchasing, along with high scores for digital thread creation with the connection to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.

Aras and their PLM software Innovator is an Innovation leader, with capabilities rivaling and surpassing those of Siemens, PTC, and Dassault Systèmes. Aras' highest scores came from strengths in low-code API management, the integration of AI assisting chatbots, and robust Out-of-the-Box (OOTB) functionality so manufacturers are less reliant on SIs and VARs.

Large discrete manufacturers share priorities when it comes to the functionality and deployment of PLM solutions. All require fast time-to-value, flexible solution architecture, and new technology additions such as Gen AI. With the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) for Large Discrete Manufacturers competitive assessment, vendors and end users can see how PLM software competes in the market, and where vendors can improve offerings to better facilitate the needs of large discrete manufacturers.