The challenge

The main challenge was to introduce a distributed product data management system to enable collaboration between project teams all over the world. Other important tasks included support and training during the implementation and go-live phases. A large T-Systems team with proven expertise in the product dat a management field worked on the project in close cooperation with the customer. T-Systems’ decisive advantage over its competitors was its understanding of the processes and systems at Daimler, as well as its familiarity with the Metaphase software.

The T-Systems solution

Combining all available resources and sharingknowledge across national boundaries are the key to the success of today’s global players. To enable multinational Daimler teams to collaborate closely, T-Systems is linking 30 sites and 7,500 engineers with SMARAGD, a new PDM system. The solution, specially tailored to the automotive giant’s needs, is a central hub for product data that boosts productivity and promotes effective teamwork within the company. As prime contractor, T-Systems ensures rapid integration of the new solution throughout the organization. Training courses, user support and hotline services guarantee smooth roll-out. The solution provider will also manage the system once it is up and running.

In addition to a powerful information sharing concept that enables geographically dispersed teams to collaborate, the system supports variousviews of product data, e.g. according to function, interfaces with other components, and work task. This approach specifically gives users the information they need without overloading them. Seamless integration with bills-of-materials makes it possible to configure a vehicle in detail, and to generate a digital mock-up.

Integration of the system into the workflows of development partners is well advanced. An important feature is the interface between CATIA and Metaphase systems.

Customer benefits

Three-dimensional models of all ranges of passenger and commercial vehicle can now be accessed from anywhere in the world. Lengthy search and load times are a thing of the past. The system also features well-defined design approval procedures and effective support for communication with development partners. This shortens leadtimes considerably and relieves designers of time consuming administrative tasks. SMARAGD plays an important role in improving efficiency and overcoming the complexity and diversity of product design in an increasingly demanding market.