### Contents - [**Articles**](#resources-articles) - [**Glossary Terms**](#resources-glossary_terms) - [**Discussions**](#resources-discussions) - [**Reports**](#resources-reports) # Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Software Resources ##### Articles, Glossary Terms, Discussions, and Reports to expand your knowledge on Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Software Resource pages are designed to give you a cross-section of information we have on specific categories. You'll find [articles](#resources-articles) from our experts, [feature definitions](#resources-glossary_terms), [discussions](#resources-discussions) from users like you, and [reports](#resources-reports) from industry data. [ContentsExpand/Collapse Contents](#) - [**Articles**](#resources-articles) - [**Glossary Terms**](#resources-glossary_terms) - [**Discussions**](#resources-discussions) - [**Reports**](#resources-reports) ## Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Software Articles [![I Found the 7 Best Free PLM Software for 2026](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_FI1081_Learn_Article_%5BFree_PLM_Software%5D_V1a-2.png "I Found the 7 Best Free PLM Software for 2026")](https://www.g2.com/articles/best-free-plm-software) [ ### I Found the 7 Best Free PLM Software for 2026 ](https://www.g2.com/articles/best-free-plm-software) I understand the critical role product lifecycle management (PLM) plays in driving efficiency and collaboration. In many organizations, there’s already a solid PLM solution in place, but the high cost and complexity of these systems can make experimentation difficult. [ ![Devyani Mehta](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Devyani Mehta") DM ](https://learn.g2.com/author/devyani-mehta) by Devyani Mehta [![How to Choose the Right Software Mix for Manufacturing](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/manufacturing%20software%20mix.jpg "How to Choose the Right Software Mix for Manufacturing")](https://www.g2.com/articles/how-to-choose-software-mix-for-manufacturing) [ ### How to Choose the Right Software Mix for Manufacturing ](https://www.g2.com/articles/how-to-choose-software-mix-for-manufacturing) Manufacturing processes are complex and require multiple tools to achieve the desired results. Certain tools used in the manufacturing sector, such as product lifecycle management (PLM), enterprise resource planning (ERP), and quality management systems (QMS), have unique, but complementary features. At present, companies are looking to combine such software tools to have better visibility into their manufacturing operations. However, it is important that the integration is done in an appropriate manner, or else it fails to maximize the organization’s efficiency. [ ![Gabriel Gheorghiu](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Gabriel Gheorghiu") GG ](https://learn.g2.com/author/gabriel-gheorghiu) by Gabriel Gheorghiu [![2023 Trends in the Manufacturing Industry](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/Manufacturing%20Trends%20in%202022.png "2023 Trends in the Manufacturing Industry")](https://www.g2.com/articles/manufacturing-industry-trends-2023) [ ### 2023 Trends in the Manufacturing Industry ](https://www.g2.com/articles/manufacturing-industry-trends-2023) This post is part of G2's 2023 digital trends series. Read more about G2’s perspective on digital transformation trends in an introduction from Emily Malis Greathouse, director, market research, and additional coverage on trends identified by G2’s analysts.  [ ![Anindita Sengupta](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Anindita Sengupta") AS ](https://learn.g2.com/author/anindita-sengupta) by Anindita Sengupta [![How to Choose the Best Production Process For Your Business](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-18%20at%203.47.53%20PM.png "How to Choose the Best Production Process For Your Business")](https://www.g2.com/articles/production-process) [ ### How to Choose the Best Production Process For Your Business ](https://www.g2.com/articles/production-process) From small to large businesses, each one has a process. [ ![Adithya Siva](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Adithya Siva") AS ](https://learn.g2.com/author/adithya-siva) by Adithya Siva [![The Relevance of PLM Software in the Manufacturing Industry](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/PLM%20Software-AS.jpg "The Relevance of PLM Software in the Manufacturing Industry")](https://www.g2.com/articles/plm-software-in-manufacturing-industry) [ ### The Relevance of PLM Software in the Manufacturing Industry ](https://www.g2.com/articles/plm-software-in-manufacturing-industry) Traditional product lifecycle management (PLM) has come a long way—from its genesis as a solution focused on computer-aided design (CAD), offering document management capabilities to its evolution as a SaaS platform that manages the lifecycle of highly complex products.      [ ![Anindita Sengupta](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Anindita Sengupta") AS ](https://learn.g2.com/author/anindita-sengupta) by Anindita Sengupta [![Product Lifecycle Management: How to Sell Faster and Smarter](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/_learn-product-lifecycle-management@2x.png "Product Lifecycle Management: How to Sell Faster and Smarter")](https://www.g2.com/articles/product-lifecycle-management) [ ### Product Lifecycle Management: How to Sell Faster and Smarter ](https://www.g2.com/articles/product-lifecycle-management) I know the title looks like clickbait but hear me out. [ ![Alexandra Vazquez](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Alexandra Vazquez") AV ](https://learn.g2.com/author/alexandra-vazquez) by Alexandra Vazquez [![Computer-Aided Design (CAD): State of Category](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/houses-businessman-man-hands-110469-1.jpg "Computer-Aided Design (CAD): State of Category")](https://www.g2.com/articles/computer-aided-design-cad-state-of-category) [ ### Computer-Aided Design (CAD): State of Category ](https://www.g2.com/articles/computer-aided-design-cad-state-of-category) Computer-aided design (CAD) software was developed as part of a project delivered in 1960 by MIT’s Electronic Systems Laboratory, in collaboration with the United States Air Force. [ ![Michael Gigante](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Michael Gigante") MG ](https://learn.g2.com/author/michael-gigante) by Michael Gigante [![SaaS-Based CAD is Taking Over](https://sell.g2.com/hubfs/pexels-2004161.jpg "SaaS-Based CAD is Taking Over")](https://www.g2.com/articles/saas-based-cad-is-taking-over) [ ### SaaS-Based CAD is Taking Over ](https://www.g2.com/articles/saas-based-cad-is-taking-over) Software as a service (SaaS), also known as software in the cloud, is increasingly penetrating the tech market. From education to finance, countless industries are implementing SaaS based solutions, and most of those industries are better because of it. [ ![Michael Gigante](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Michael Gigante") MG ](https://learn.g2.com/author/michael-gigante) by Michael Gigante Show More ## Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Software Glossary Terms [![Lean Manufacturing](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/Lean%20Manufacturing.png "Lean Manufacturing")](https://www.g2.com/glossary/lean-manufacturing-definition) [Lean Manufacturing](https://www.g2.com/glossary/lean-manufacturing-definition) Understand lean manufacturing, principles, and benefits. Learn how it improves processes, reduces waste, and enhances efficiency for a competitive edge. by Samudyata Bhat [![Product Market Fit](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_GI628_Glossary_Article_Images_%5Bproduct_market_fit%5D_V1a.png "Product Market Fit")](https://www.g2.com/glossary/product-market-fit-definition) [Product Market Fit](https://www.g2.com/glossary/product-market-fit-definition) Product market fit is about developing a product that meets consumer demands. Learn why it's important, its benefits, and the steps to achieve it. by Alyssa Towns [![Product Lifecycle](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_GI487_Glossary_Article_Images_%5BProduct_Lifecycle%5D_V1a.png "Product Lifecycle")](https://www.g2.com/glossary/product-lifecycle-definition) [Product Lifecycle](https://www.g2.com/glossary/product-lifecycle-definition) The product lifecycle is the journey of a product from introduction to the market to its retirement. Learn why it's important for product-based businesses. by Holly Landis ## Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Software Discussions 0 Question on: Autodesk Fusion Manage [What does the API look like on Upchain? Can it easily be linked to ERP systems or other engineering softwares?](/discussions/25025-what-does-the-api-look-like-on-upchain-can-it-easily-be-linked-to-erp-systems-or-other-engineering-softwares) We are looking to possibly link up some software to have Upchain information in other areas. Would like to know how easy this could be implemented. We at Upchain have a Rest API that any one of our clients can utilize. With our Enterprise service bus (ESB) partner we can connect to most ERP systems and in fact 200+ other platforms. Answered: Pero Solin on March 11, 2020 [Your answer](/discussions/25025-what-does-the-api-look-like-on-upchain-can-it-easily-be-linked-to-erp-systems-or-other-engineering-softwares/comments/new?remote=true) 0 Question on: Autodesk Fusion Manage [Can I use Upchain to store work instructions or control plans?](/discussions/24775-can-i-use-upchain-to-store-work-instructions-or-control-plans) It would be nice to have control plans for each part. Yes, work instructions and control plans can be associated with specific Items and Assemblies within your BOM. Additionally, you can associate work instructions with specific QA procedures, and control plans with product requirements. If you would like more information please contact Upchain at Sales@upchain.com Answered: Pero Solin on March 5, 2020 [Your answer](/discussions/24775-can-i-use-upchain-to-store-work-instructions-or-control-plans/comments/new?remote=true) 0 Question on: Arena PLM & QMS [Can this PLM bring the data and drawings straight to the production lines so we can digitize the production lines and remove the paper?](/discussions/can-this-plm-bring-the-data-and-drawings-straight-to-the-production-lines-so-we-can-digitize-the-production-lines-and-remove-the-paper) We need a PLM to bring the data and drawings to the production lines to digitize the production lines and remove the paper Andrea, Thanks for your inquiry. PLM does allow us to provide electronic access for documents, drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), and other product information to production lines and supply chain partners. If you would like to learn more, please email Mark Hudson via email at mhudson@arenasolutions.com. Best regards, Scott Answered: Scott Reedy on August 11, 2020 [Your answer](/discussions/can-this-plm-bring-the-data-and-drawings-straight-to-the-production-lines-so-we-can-digitize-the-production-lines-and-remove-the-paper/comments/new?remote=true) - [‹ Prev‹ Prev](/categories/product-lifecycle-management-plm/resources) - [1](/categories/product-lifecycle-management-plm/resources) - 2 - [3](/categories/product-lifecycle-management-plm/resources?discussions_page=3) - [4](/categories/product-lifecycle-management-plm/resources?discussions_page=4) - [5](/categories/product-lifecycle-management-plm/resources?discussions_page=5) - [6](/categories/product-lifecycle-management-plm/resources?discussions_page=6) - … - [27](/categories/product-lifecycle-management-plm/resources?discussions_page=27) - [28](/categories/product-lifecycle-management-plm/resources?discussions_page=28) - [Next ›Next ›](/categories/product-lifecycle-management-plm/resources?discussions_page=3) ## Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Software Reports Mid-Market Grid® Report for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Summer 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Grid® Report for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Summer 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Enterprise Grid® Report for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Summer 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Momentum Grid® Report for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Summer 2026 G2 Report: Momentum Grid® Report Small-Business Grid® Report for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Summer 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Enterprise Grid® Report for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Spring 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Small-Business Grid® Report for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Spring 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Mid-Market Grid® Report for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Spring 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Grid® Report for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Spring 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Momentum Grid® Report for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Spring 2026 G2 Report: Momentum Grid® Report