For the last couple of decades, technologies in the product lifecycle space have been point- solutions oriented.  Think configurators, CAD systems, PDM, document management like SharePoint, FEA, ERP, etc.  In reality, these point solutions have simply reinforced existing information silos that make the “digital twin” concept a fantasyland. 

We recently prototyped a components/parts catalog solution by leveraging the power of Aras Innovator.  The prototype empowers users to search, provides new part request options, support linking documents such as MSDS’s, dynamically links to ERP data, and integrates with IHS’ parts catalog solution.  And it was done in matter of days and with software that doesn’t cost a cent!