5 Strategies To Help OpenBOM Adoption and Remove Traditional “PLM Fears”

Adopting engineering software such as PDM, PLM, and other has historically been a significant challenge. These systems have earned a reputation for being notoriously complex to install, operate, and master. Many engineers and stakeholders express hesitation, preferring to stick to familiar tools like Excel spreadsheets instead.

At OpenBOM, we’ve listened to these concerns and developed solutions to address them head-on. Below are five common “fears” about PLM adoption and how OpenBOM strategically eliminates them.

Common PLM Adoption Fears

1. The system will take too much time to set up.
2. The team will be afraid of using the system because of its complexity.
3. The system will slow down the process, especially for those without special training.
4. The company won’t see enough value to justify the effort.
5. The new system won’t be compatible with existing tools.

These concerns are valid and widespread. Here’s how OpenBOM’s architecture and strategies alleviate them:

Accessible Online Experience – Test Drive Before Commitment

We believe that the best way to remove concerns about complexity is to allow potential users to experience the software by themselves. No need for a fancy presentation – OpenBOM is available via free registration and your account will be available to you in a minute. Click here to start a free trial. This early exposure helps users overcome the initial fear barrier, as they realize the system is intuitive and aligns well with their needs. It’s often the trial experience that transforms skepticism into trust.

Familiar Spreadsheet-Like User Interface

Simplicity is hard. So, we set a goal to design using a familiar spreadsheet paradigm. Excel is the go-to tool for engineers, shop floor workers, procurement planners, and managers. OpenBOM capitalizes on this by offering a spreadsheet-like interface that feels similar to Excel but with enhanced capabilities for engineering and data management. This recognizable UI helps users adapt quickly, minimizing resistance to change.

Immersive Integration with Existing Tools

Seamless integration with existing CAD and engineering software is key to ensuring a smooth transition. OpenBOM provides plug-ins for popular CAD tools, offering a user experience that closely matches the CAD environment. This continuity helps users feel at home, reducing the intimidation factor often associated with new systems. By embedding OpenBOM directly into familiar workflows, adoption becomes a natural extension rather than a disruption.

Smooth Data Import and Export

To address fears about compatibility and data migration, OpenBOM supports seamless data flow from existing spreadsheets and other tools. Importing data from Excel, CSV, or other formats is straightforward, and users can easily export data back if needed. This dual capability means users are never “locked in” and can continue using Excel during the transition, eliminating fears of being trapped in a new and unfamiliar system. It also allows different groups of users in the company to go with their own adoption speed. 

Comprehensive Online Education and Support

Education is a powerful tool we use to help adoption. OpenBOM provides many online resources – articles, videos, documentation, and community forums. Our content is easily searchable on Google, YouTube, and recently through tools like ChatGPT. Moreover, OpenBOM offers integrated support within the application, allowing users to report issues or ask questions without leaving the platform. This accessibility empowers users to get the help they need whenever they need it.

Focus on Simplicity: Mastering the Main Product Loop

One of the keys to OpenBOM’s success in adoption is our focus on making the main product loop simple and easy to use. For OpenBOM, this loop consists of:

1. Capturing data from CAD systems with the One-Click BOM function.
2. Seamless editing and collaboration with a familiar spreadsheet-like UX.
3. Effortless export and data sharing, making information accessible to all stakeholders.

While OpenBOM includes many advanced features, the core functionalities are designed to be easy to grasp from the start. You will get” a simple “BOM button” and the ability to organize data in a spreadsheet like UI/UX. This makes the first experience with OpenBOM straightforward, minimizing the learning curve and reinforcing positive first impressions.

Onboarding Workshops and Continuous Support

The last mile of making your work easier with OpenBOM is by providing tailored onboarding sessions after the purchase and online support during the trial period. Our support team and partners are available to provide hands-on guidance and help users learn specific functions. This simple and transparent support helps users feel comfortable and confident as they explore OpenBOM’s capabilities.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Fear Hold You Back

If you’re considering a shift from Excel to tools that manage product information, lifecycle processes, procurement, and inventory control, don’t let fear be a barrier to digital transformation. OpenBOM’s focus on simplicity, familiar interfaces, and connected support makes it a user-friendly solution from day one. Remember, the fewer things your team needs to learn to see value, the quicker you’ll achieve the results that matter.

Take the first step—register for a free trial and 

REGISTER FOR FREE and explore how OpenBOM can make a difference today. You will experience how OpenBOM can transform your workflow. Don’t just take my word for it, see it live and experience it with the tool online. 

Best, Oleg