Maximizing Team Productivity & Efficiency with Built-In, Cloud-Native PDM

NPS measures how likely users are to recommend a product. Software users are asked, “On a scale of 0 to 10, how likely are you to recommend this software to a colleague?” A high NPS means most users are happy; a low NPS suggests there are issues.

What if your team had a PDM system that worked seamlessly in the background – boosting productivity, improving collaboration, and speeding up product development? 

Onshape’s built-in, cloud-native PDM offers exactly that, transforming how organizations manage design data and work together.

Limitations of Traditional, File-Based PDM Software

PDM systems were originally created to address version control issues, but they come with significant downsides that can hinder productivity. The complex check-in/check-out process not only slows down workflows but also restricts collaboration, as only one user can work on a file at a time. This bottleneck is further exacerbated when teams are distributed across multiple locations, making collaboration even more difficult. Additionally, constant system maintenance drives up IT costs and burdens internal resources.

Traditional PDM systems also pose risks of data loss or corruption during file transfers, especially when working with large or complex files. These systems rely heavily on local storage or network servers, which means that if a file is lost or corrupted, recovering it can be time-consuming and costly.

Moreover, many companies attempt to patch these limitations by using cloud-storage solutions for CAD file management. While cloud storage addresses some issues, it still doesn't offer the version control and real-time collaboration features that modern product development teams require. Cloud storage systems are typically designed for general file sharing and lack the advanced PDM capabilities necessary for managing complex CAD data, such as automatic backups, multi-user editing, or integrated design reviews. These “workarounds” often lead to fragmented workflows and security risks, as multiple versions of files float between different users without a centralized management system.

With these limitations in mind, it’s clear that neither traditional file-based PDM systems nor simple cloud-storage options are sufficient for today’s fast-paced, distributed engineering teams. Organizations need a modern, cloud-native solution that eliminates these inefficiencies and offers real-time data management, seamless collaboration, and robust security – all of which Onshape delivers.

CAD Users Prefer Built-In, Cloud-Native PDM

In the same survey of CAD and PDM users, Onshape users were found to be twice as likely to recommend their built-in PDM system (which is inherent in Onshape) compared to users of other vendors. This overwhelming preference is driven by the elimination of traditional file management issues and the reliability of Onshape’s cloud database.

For many respondents, the key benefits of a built-in PDM system are clear: seamless integration, real-time collaboration, and robust cloud-native data management. Onshape’s fully cloud-native approach checks all of these boxes, offering a more effective solution than traditional, file-based PDM systems.

When compared to SOLIDWORKS' add-on data management system, Onshape’s built-in PDM received a weighted average satisfaction score of 4 out of 5, compared to SOLIDWORKS' 3.53. This difference highlights how Onshape eliminates the common pain points that slow down product development with traditional systems.

With no files to check in or out, no local versions to manage, and no risk of losing hours of work due to a system crash, Onshape’s built-in PDM system ensures your data is always saved and backed up in real time. Your team is free to focus on design and innovation without the administrative burdens that come with maintaining a separate PDM system.

9 Reasons Why Onshape is a Game-Changer

Onshape eliminates these problems entirely by being fully cloud-native. There are no files to check in or out, no local versions to manage, and no risk of losing work due to system crashes. Your team can collaborate in real-time, with data automatically saved and backed up. 

Key benefits of Onshape’s built-in PDM system include:

1. Zero Additional Cost

Unlike traditional PDM systems that come with hefty price tags, Onshape’s PDM solution is fully built into the workspace. This means immediate savings on software licenses, hardware, and ongoing maintenance fees.

2. No IT Overheads

Onshape eliminates the need for complex IT infrastructure and support. There’s no extra software to install, no servers to maintain, and no system crashes to worry about. Your IT team can focus on strategic initiatives rather than PDM maintenance.

3. Automatic Backups and Updates

Onshape’s cloud-native architecture ensures your data is continuously backed up and always up-to-date. You'll never lose work due to system failures, and you’ll always have access to the latest features without disruptive update cycles.

4. Real-Time Data Management for Faster Innovation

Onshape’s built-in PDM enables multiple team members to work on the same design data simultaneously, eliminating file check-in/check-out bottlenecks. This modern way of managing data accelerates your design process, ensures everyone is working with the latest version, and drives innovation through enhanced data integrity and teamwork

5. Streamlined Workflow for Increased Productivity

By having PDM directly built into the design environment, Onshape eliminates the need to switch between different software systems. This streamlined workflow significantly boosts your team's productivity and efficiency.

6. Branch and Merge Without Hassle

Onshape's built-in PDM software includes git-style branch and merge, which allows your teams to explore design alternatives without fear of losing work. This encourages engineers and designers to fearlessly explore design alternatives.

7. Reduced Administrative Overhead

Onshape automates many administrative tasks associated with traditional PDM systems. This frees up your team’s time to focus on high-value activities like design and innovation, rather than file management.

8. Enhanced Data Security and Integrity

With Onshape, your intellectual property is protected by enterprise-grade security measures. The risk of data loss due to hardware failure or theft is eliminated, ensuring your valuable designs are always safe and accessible.

9. Scalability Without Added Complexity

As your business grows, Onshape scales effortlessly without requiring additional infrastructure or IT resources. This allows you to expand your operations smoothly without worrying about traditional file-based PDM limitations.

Why Leaders Should Choose Onshape

Adopting Onshape’s cloud-native CAD and PDM software isn’t just about eliminating the frustrations of traditional systems – it’s about giving your team the tools they need to work smarter, faster, and more efficiently. With Onshape, you're not only reducing costs and IT headaches but also empowering your team to focus on innovation, collaboration, and growth.

By positioning your organization with Onshape’s modern PDM solution, you’re strategically investing in a platform that scales effortlessly with your business, streamlines processes, and ensures your design data is always secure. The future of product development is here – more efficient, collaborative, and cost-effective than ever before. 

Are you ready to transform your team’s potential and stay ahead of the competition?