A Practical Guide to the Digital Product Passport

Companies Are Using PLM to Manage DPP Information

When it comes to data and information, trying to collect and consolidate into one location to meet DPP requirements can be a challenge. Product lifecycle management (PLM) software integrated with upstream and downstream systems such as enterprise resource planning (ERP), manufacturing execution systems (MES), and lifecycle assessment (LCA) provide a centralized system to streamline sourcing and aggregating DPP critical information. With PLM as the backbone of the DPP, companies can ensure information is maintained and accurate throughout a product’s lifecycle. Integration between ERP and PLM allows communication between the two systems so BOM information is accurate and current.

Addressing DPP requirements early on is vital

Preparing for DPP takes planning, which is why information mapping is vital—it gives organizations a better understanding of what information is needed and where it resides in product lifecycle management (PLM), especially if it’s on spreadsheets or documents. Once the information is located it may need to be checked for accuracy and then exported into a compatible PLM format.

Jörgen Ekblad, PLM and Requirement Management for QCM Sweden said, “First, you need to start the mapping in your company. What information are you interested in and where do you manage it? What attributes do you need to know to aggregate the right information? Understand, it may not be in the PLM system, it may be in many different locations.”

Mapping provides a 360 view of the supply chain and system interoperability. This level of detail enables management and teams to connect people and systems to define roles and DPP responsibilities.

PLM’s role in supporting DPP compliance

As a single source of product information, PLM is part of a digitally connected environment. As a strategy, the PLM discipline manages a product throughout its entire lifecycle—treating the product lifecycle as a continuous process with integrated decision-making at every stage—this is why PLM is an ideal fit for companies that need to be DPP compliant.

Companies use PLM software and practices to support DPP compliance by:

• Increasing transparency in the supply chains for faster decision-making
• Innovating new ways to recycle/reuse that’ll drive the circular economy
• Managing comprehensive product data and information in a single source
• Managing DPP attributes to meet current EU regulations
• Restructuring processes and process requirements to be more sustainable