Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering – Détails, épisodes et analyse

In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we break down the biggest themes and takeaways from 3DEXPERIENCE World (formerly SolidWorks World), held this year in Houston.

The message was loud and clear: AI is here — and Dassault Systèmes is betting big on it.

From the headline-making partnership with NVIDIA to live AI demos inside the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, the event showcased ambitious plans for AI-driven engineering workflows. But beyond the stage announcements, what are customers actually asking about? And what does this shift mean for data strategy, PLM adoption, and long-term system decisions?

Juliann Grant discusses the highlights of the event with the attending Razorleaf team, Jonathan Scott, Francois Schlub, and Andrew Halley as they share what really stood out — including conversations happening off-stage.

Key Themes from the Event

AI Everywhere — But What Does It Really Mean?

• AI agents embedded in SolidWorks workflows
• Live demos showing rapid simulation and design iteration
• Partnership announcement between Dassault Systèmes and NVIDIA
• The broader message: AI as a force multiplier, not just a chatbot

Data Is the Foundation

• Why clean, structured product data matters more than ever
• The push toward centralizing data in the 3DEXPERIENCE platform
• Integration challenges across ERP, PDM, and PLM systems
• “Garbage in, garbage out” — especially with AI

Adoption Still Matters More Than Hype

• Real-world customer questions about migration and workflows
• PDM Pro vs. Manage vs. 3DEXPERIENCE decisions
• Cloud adoption realities
• Legacy systems vs. startup-native cloud environments

Education & the Next Generation

• Expanded focus on 3DEXPERIENCE EDU
• High school and university programs teaching platform tools early
• The long-term shift in engineering workforce readiness

The Big Question: Is AI Replacing Engineers?

A recurring theme throughout the conference:
If AI compresses hours of work into minutes… what changes for engineering teams?

We explore the tension between productivity gains and workforce impact — and what it may mean for the future of digital engineering.

Guests in This Episode

• Juliann Grant – Host
• Jonathan Scott – Host
• Andrew Halley – Senior Director of Partnerships
• François Schlub– Sales Executive

The Event Takeaways

AI dominated the headlines.
But customers are still focused on:

• Getting PLM foundations right
• Managing migration paths
• Structuring and governing product data
• Ensuring successful user adoption

The shift is real — but the groundwork still matters.

If you couldn’t make it to Houston, this recap gives you the highlights, insights, and honest takeaways from the floor.

👉 Have questions about 3DEXPERIENCE, AI strategy, or PLM adoption?
Reach out to the team at Razorleaf.

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© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

Digital engineering gets a lot of attention. But what happens after the design is complete?

In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we sit down with Naveen Poonian, CEO of iBase-t, to explore why execution — not just engineering — is the real battleground of digital transformation in aerospace and defense.

From Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) to Supplier Quality Management (SQM) and Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO), we unpack how digital tools connect engineering, production, service, and compliance into a true lifecycle ecosystem.

We also explore:

•  Why complex discrete manufacturing requires a different approach
• The shift toward model-based enterprise
• How AI is being applied to real execution problems
• What makes digital transformation succeed (and fail)
• The culture behind iBase-t’s family-owned legacy

If you're navigating digital manufacturing, aerospace innovation, or operational transformation, this conversation delivers practical insight grounded in real-world execution.

Key Takeaways

• Execution is the missing link between digital engineering and real-world manufacturing outcomes.
•  Aerospace and defense demand precision, traceability, and compliance at every stage.
• MES and MOM platforms must connect deeply with supply chain and MRO processes.
• AI must solve real operational problems — not just exist as a feature.
• Digital transformation requires partnership, focus, and strong organizational alignment.
• The future is model-based, interoperable, and data-driven.

 
Guest -

Naveen Poonian
CEO, iBase-t
Aerospace and defense technology leader focused on manufacturing execution, lifecycle transformation, and operational excellence.

Resources & Mentions

• iBase-t
• iBase-t Excelerate Conference
• Model-Based Enterprise (MBE)
• Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)
• Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM)
• Supplier Quality Management (SQM)
• Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO)

Connect With Us

📩 Have questions or topic ideas? Email: podcast@razorleaf.com
💬 Leave a comment — we read them all
⭐ Subscribe for future conversations on digital engineering and manufacturing

If you found value in this episode, please share it with a colleague in aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing.

Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.
Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.
© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

Episode Summary

AI is everywhere, but in engineering and manufacturing, hype often outpaces reality. In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we unpack what it actually means to be “AI-ready” and why most organizations are struggling to get there.

Hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott are joined by Graham Law, PLM Solution Architect at Razorleaf, to explore the unglamorous but essential foundation of successful AI initiatives: clean, governed, connected engineering data. With over 16 years in PLM and a deep IT background, Graham offers a grounded perspective on what works, what fails, and where organizations should realistically start.

This conversation cuts through buzzwords to focus on practical steps, real risks, and how PLM enables AI to deliver meaningful insight rather than confident misinformation.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• AI success in engineering is 80% data hygiene and 20% technology
• Messy, duplicated, or poorly linked data leads to confidently wrong AI answers
• PLM provides the structure, context, and governance AI depends on
• Organizations should start small, not attempt to “boil the ocean”
• AI can surface insights humans miss, but only if the data foundation is solid
• Governance is just as important as cleanup—stop creating bad data going forward

👤 Guest

Graham Law

• PLM Solution Architect, Razorleaf
• 16+ years in Product Lifecycle Management Experience with Windchill, Teamcenter, Aras, SOLIDWORKS PLM                                                                   
• Former IT Manager with deep systems expertise

📣 Call to Action

If this episode helped sharpen your thinking about AI and engineering data:

●      Subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering

●      Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

●      Share this episode with a colleague working on AI or PLM initiatives

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© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

Episode 25: PLM Master Class: A Comprehensive Guide to System Components Part 3 of 3

In episode 25 of Razorleaf Podcast: "The Components of a PLM System, Part 3 (Final)," hosts Jen and Jonathan conclude their comprehensive exploration of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems. 

They dive into complex aspects like project and program management, systems engineering, variant management, compliance, e-signature protocols, intellectual property protection, and the intricacies of process definition. 

This episode stands as a capstone to the series, offering a deep dive into lesser-known but critical components of PLM systems, emphasizing their importance for managing digital manufacturing processes comprehensively.

Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.
Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.
© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

In Episode 24 of the Razorleaf Podcast, hosts Jonathan and Jen discuss choosing the right partner in digital manufacturing. 

They delve into why partnerships are crucial for achieving goals in specialized fields and the importance of qualities like aligned core values and active listening for successful collaborations. 

Jen shares her journey and insights from her extensive experience in partnerships, emphasizing the need for detailed planning, flexibility, and mutual respect in partnership dynamics. 

The conversation covers various aspects of partnerships, including technical needs, project management, and the benefits of a broad network, providing listeners with comprehensive guidance on navigating partnership decisions.

Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.
Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.
© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

Episode 23: PLM Master Class: A Comprehensive Guide to System Components, Part 2

In episode 23 of Razorleaf Podcast, titled "The Components of a PLM System, Part 2," Jen and Jonathan continue exploring the intricate components of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems. 

They delve into specialized components such as platform capabilities, file management, process management, product structure management, and the nuances of collaboration. 

The discussion emphasizes the importance of scalability, performance, localization, simulation, manufacturing data management, and more. 

They highlight the need for integration and customization to address specific organizational needs, setting the stage for a comprehensive understanding of advanced PLM components.

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Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.
© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

Welcome to Episode 22 of the Razorleaf Podcast – "Stay Sharp with Razorleaf," where we delve into the digital and manufacturing realm. 

This episode, hosted by Jen and Jonathan, features Dennis Lindinger, a Senior Solution Architect at Razorleaf, to discuss the nuanced debate between out-of-the-box solutions and customization within PLM systems.

Key Discussion Points:

• Defining Customization vs. Configuration: The episode starts with a clear distinction between customization and configuration, emphasizing the importance of understanding each approach's impact on PLM system implementation.
• OOTB Benefits and Limitations: The team discusses the concept of "out-of-the-box" solutions, highlighting their immediate usability and potential restrictions for specific business needs.
• Customization Considerations: Dennis Lininger shares insights into when and why businesses might opt for customization, including the strategic value it can offer, albeit with potential complexities and long-term implications.
• Real-world Implications: Through anecdotes and industry experience, the conversation covers practical examples of how businesses navigate the decision to customize or configure, including the importance of documentation and vendor support.
• Strategic Decision-Making: The episode concludes with a discussion on making informed strategic decisions around customization, considering business needs, system capabilities, and the overall impact on future scalability and upgrades.

Join us on your preferred podcast platform to stay sharp on all things digital in manufacturing with Razorleaf.

Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.
Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.
© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

In this episode of the Razorleaf Podcast, "PLM Master Class: A Comprehensive Guide to System Components, Part 1 of 3" hosts Jonathan and Jen embark on the first installment of a three-part series dedicated to dissecting the complexities of PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems. 

The episode delves into the essential components and platform capabilities that underpin PLM systems, highlighting their significance in managing the entire product lifecycle. 

From discussing value management processes, product structures, to the intricacies of collaboration, this episode provides a primer on the fundamentals of PLM.

Jonathan Scott, Razorleaf's Chief Architect with a rich background in engineering and extensive experience in various industries, shares his insights into the evolution of PLM systems, drawing from his 26 years of experience. 

The conversation covers the journey from file management, the importance of processes, to the management of product structures and the pivotal role of collaboration in PLM systems.

Listeners are taken on a journey through the stages of the product lifecycle, with Jonathan providing a comprehensive overview of how PLM systems facilitate the management of documents, assembly files, engineering change processes, and bill of materials. 

The episode also touches on the historical context of PLM, comparing it to the evolution of product development from the era of the caveman to modern industrialization.

Jen and Jonathan discuss the broader implications of PLM systems as platforms, emphasizing the need for a cohesive approach that integrates files, processes, product structures, and collaboration. 

Tune in to "PLM Master Class: A Comprehensive Guide to System Components, Part 1 of 3" for a thorough exploration of PLM systems, offering valuable insights for professionals in digital manufacturing and anyone interested in the intricacies of product lifecycle management.

Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.
Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.
© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

Ep. 20:  Is Infrastructure Still Relevant?

In this fascinating episode of the "Stay Sharp with Razorleaf" podcast, hosts Jen and Jonathan, along with special guest Michael Craffey, delve into the dynamic and evolving world of IT infrastructure in relation to PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems. With a focus on the significant shifts driven by cloud technology, this episode explores how the concept of infrastructure has transformed in recent years and what this means for businesses today.

Key Highlights:

• Introduction to PLM Infrastructure Evolution:
  • Insights into how infrastructure related to PLM systems has shifted over the years.
• From Data Centers to Cloud Computing:
  • Discussion on the transition from traditional data centers to cloud-based solutions.
• Impact of economics, risk management, and technological advancements on infrastructure choices.
• Challenges and Opportunities in Cloud Adoption:
  • Exploring the initial reluctance and eventual acceptance of cloud technology in engineering and manufacturing.
• Security and Data Protection:
  • How concerns around security and intellectual property have influenced infrastructure decisions.
• The Role of Software as a Service (SaaS):
  • Understanding the impact of SaaS on PLM and the broader shift towards subscription-based models.
• Navigating the Hybrid Infrastructure Landscape:
  • The complexities and benefits of combining on-premise and cloud solutions.

Follow "Stay Sharp with Razorleaf" for the latest developments and expert insights in the field of digital transformation and manufacturing.

Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.
Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.
© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

Episode 19: Why PLM Projects Fail

Join us in this episode of "Stay Sharp with Razorleaf," where our hosts Jen and Jonathan, alongside guest Eric Smith, VP of Services at Razorleaf, explore the complex world of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) projects. This episode uncovers the reasons behind the success and failure of PLM projects, offering insights from Eric's extensive experience in overseeing numerous PLM implementations.

Key Highlights:

• Background and Introduction:
  • Introduction to the topic: Why PLM projects can fail.
  • Eric Smith shares his rich experience in PLM projects, setting the stage for a detailed discussion.
• Initial Steps in PLM Projects:
  • Importance of aligning initiatives across departments.
  • The role of internal agreement and understanding the cost, return, and impact on various departments.
• Common Challenges in PLM Implementation:
  • The necessity for broad approval and buy-in across executive groups.
  • Addressing the pitfalls of department-focused initiatives and considering global implications.
• Selecting the Right Partners and Technology:
  • The critical step of choosing an implementation partner after selecting the software.
  • Emphasis on compatibility of vendor's character, vision, and strategy with the company's needs.
• Project Management and Execution:
  • Discussion on the significance of project management in PLM implementation.
  • Exploring different approaches to project management, like incremental delivery versus monolithic approaches.
• Data Management and Quality:
  • Addressing challenges with data migration and legacy systems.
  • The importance of having realistic expectations about data quality and incremental progress.
• Navigating Organizational Change and Training:
  • The crucial role of effective communication and training for successful adoption.
  • Strategies for managing change and aligning project goals with organizational culture.

Follow "Stay Sharp with Razorleaf" on your preferred podcast platform to stay updated on the latest in digital transformation and manufacturing.

Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.
Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.
© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.