I write this short rundown on what to expect at the upcoming PLM Road Map & PDT Europe (23 & 24 October), knowing that this coming week is the final stretch before the main show begins. This time, it is the European event, and it is my turn to jump on a plane and head to Gothenburg, Sweden.
As we gear up for PLM Road Map & PDT Europe 2024, there’s much to look forward to. The agenda is packed with insights that will set the stage for some serious discussions about the future of PLM. Don’t miss out on what’s shaping up as an essential event for the PLM community. Explore the Agenda.
Day 1 – October 23
The first day of the conference kicks off with Peter Bilello from CIMdata exploring how digital transformation is changing how companies approach PLM. He’ll unpack how AI, change management, and aligning with market shifts can unlock real value throughout the product lifecycle.
A keynote presentation from Anders Romare from Novo Nordisk will take us inside the pharmaceutical world. It will show how they’re streamlining drug discovery with technologies like digital twins and even dabbling in quantum computing. It’s all about accelerating innovation without compromising quality.
Managing massive PLM platforms is no small feat, and Jorgen Dahl from GE Aerospace will look at how they keep things stable, secure, and scalable in an industry as demanding as aerospace.
Peter Vind from Siemens Energy will discuss how they’re using Business Capability Models (BCMs) to connect IT with the business, cutting through the complexity that often follows big mergers and acquisitions.
Peter Sandeck from TE Connectivity will explain how AI plays a pivotal role in managing trade compliance—something many companies struggle with—and ensuring structured and unstructured data stays under control within complex digital threads.
You're in luck if you’ve ever wondered how AI and machine learning can change the PLM game. Sandeepak Natu from CIMdata will dive into how these technologies are shaping predictive models and identifying hidden patterns to optimize product lifecycles.
For those focused on sales-driven strategies, Dr. Björn Wilhelmsson from Alfa Laval will share how PLM helps them manage product configurations seamlessly, even in mixed business models like Configure-to-Order (CTO) and Engineer-to-Order (ETO).
Jussi Sippola from Wärtsilä will discuss how their model-based product architecture reduced lead times by an impressive 40%, streamlining both sales and production processes.
We’ll also hear from Bernd Feldvoss from Airbus, who, on behalf of the Aerospace & Defense PLM Action Group (ADPAG), will walk us through a new framework for collaboration between OEMs and suppliers—something critical for the aerospace and defense (A&D) sector, where global standards are essential.
Dr. Cristina Paniagua from Luleå University of Technology will round out Day 1 with insights into how emerging technologies like SysML and semantic tools are enhancing data management across PLM and ERP systems.
Day 2 – October 24
Day 2 kicks off with a keynote from Dr. Uyiosa Abusomwan from Eaton. In this presentation, we’ll learn about Eaton’s strategies for speeding up product development despite challenges like supply chain disruptions and increased product complexity.
Have you heard of the Heliple project? Dr. Erik Herzog from Saab Aeronautics will update us on its evolution and offer a glimpse into the future of federated PLM systems and advanced integration frameworks.
Managing assets across decades is no small task in industries like nuclear power. Kent Freeland from PowerKnowledge Energy Systems will share best practices for long-term lifecycle management, ensuring safety and sustainability.
Similarly, Dion Hoare from BAE Systems will tackle the challenges of managing complex asset data—think warships and power plants—across their multi-decade lifecycles.
Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is gaining traction. James Roche and Sandeepak Natu from CIMdata will offer insights into what’s driving adoption, where the roadblocks are, and how companies can capitalize on MBSE opportunities.
Sustainability will also be a hot topic. Jos Voskuil from TACIT will show how businesses can shift toward a Product-as-a-Service model, helping them meet both customer demands and sustainability goals.
For companies navigating the complexity of data-sharing in extended value chains, Dr. Rob Bodington from Eurostep will explain why well-structured contracts are essential for managing the Digital Thread.
In one of the conference’s last presentations, we will hear from Ocado’s Gary Langridge about how they’re building “digital DNA” by leveraging AI, robotics, and PLM to fuel innovation and agility. Ocado’s journey is a great example of how modern PLM can drive continuous improvement.
To wrap things up, Peter Bilello will moderate a panel discussion that brings everything full circle—exploring how AI initiatives can be translated into real, measurable value within PLM strategies. Expect plenty of actionable insights and some great takeaways.
Are you ready?
With such a dynamic lineup of speakers and topics, PLM Road Map & PDT Europe is a must-attend event for anyone involved in PLM. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just getting started, there’s something for everyone. We’re looking forward to two days of meaningful conversations and new ideas—I hope to see you there!
Cheryl
