There are pros and cons to all the S1000D solutions in the market.
Like comparable solutions, S1000D for PTC Windchill supports multiple versions of S1000D, has a modern GUI, uses web-based technology so users can access from anywhere in the world, and provides an interface to logistics support analysis (LSA) tools.
However, some benefits are unique to users of Windchill PLM.
BOM Transformation
When engineering and service content live in the same system, data can be reused for multiple purposes. With access to the Engineering BOM (EBOM) in Windchill PLM, authors can leverage this source to create a Service BOM (SBOM) and automatically generate parts lists. An EBOM represents how a product is designed while an SBOM can represent how a product is serviced; both are supported with related part objects. The engineering part is linked to the service version of the same part. The SBOM derived from the EBOM creates a digital thread between engineering and service and enables full change management.
Change Management
Data on the entire lifecycle from engineering to service content being contained in one system makes it much easier to connect pieces. The biggest benefit of integrating S1000D into Windchill is the ability to link from design data to technical publications. Any update made at the design level notifies downstream that a change has been made so the content can be updated. Technical publications can be started earlier in the engineering process then kept in sync with the design data.
Single Instance Management
Supporting an enterprise often requires an array of software solutions. Multiple point solutions can become overwhelming to support. Since Windchill S1000D is an extension to Windchill PLM, it incorporates into your existing environment without bringing another software instance into the architecture. Windchill S1000D can be run as a standalone S1000D solution, but most customers prefer the reduced effort it takes to support the system by using the existing Windchill PLM instance.
PTC Tool Integration
S1000D for Windchill is one module that can be added to Windchill, but PTC’s portfolio extends beyond PLM and S1000D. Windchill S1000D is built on the same architecture as the PLM tools. Therefore, integration with the other PTC solutions including Augmented Reality, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), LSA, as well as GPSL’s Interactive Electronic Technical Publication (IETP) technology ViewPoint is readily available.
For all new programs that require S1000D-compliant information, it is hard to think of reasons not to add S1000D to Windchill to deliver your content.
S1000D for PTC Windchill is not the only solution available on the market, but if you are a Windchill PLM user, it makes a very compelling case. It offers unique benefits to your authors but also your wider engineering team.