Mass export from Windchill via Creo was performed using a standard script. However, the resulting geometry only contained shape data — metadata such as color, surface treatment, design history, or classification were missing. A solution was developed with the departments to enrich newly imported CAD files using existing ERP data.

Each design passes through several stages — from concept and geometry to drawing creation and final release. These require actions like prototype or series approval, four-eye drawing reviews, or data forwarding to other databases. All these processes were defined and implemented as company-specific workflows.

Throughout the lifecycle of a part, many recurring tasks arise that are now handled automatically by the PDM. For example, a PDF drawing and a STEP file are automatically derived when a part is approved for series production. Older versions are stamped with statuses like ‘obsolete’ or ‘withdrawn’. Version updates and author changes are also automated.

Legacy datasets often contain inconsistent naming conventions for components (e.g., ‘block’). Designers shouldn’t recreate parts that already exist. Clear naming schemes and categorization help find existing parts. Defining standards for fasteners and clearances also reduces part variety.