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.

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.

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

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 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.

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.

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.

In this episode of "Stay Sharp with Razorleaf," hosts Jonathan and Jen, along with their guest Derek Neiding, VP of Sales at Razorleaf, dive into the complexities faced by companies after purchasing software through resellers, specifically focusing on PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) software. 

The conversation sheds light on the roles of resellers and sets realistic expectations for buyers in the technology sector, particularly in digital manufacturing.

Discussion Points

• Understanding Reseller Channels [00:00:30]
  • Roles and responsibilities of resellers.
  • Importance of asking the right questions during the buy cycle.
• PLM Software Acquisition [00:01:00]
  • Challenges post-purchase.
  • Insights into implementation and usage.
• Guest Introduction - Derek Needing [00:02:00]
  • Background in mechanical design and IT.
  • Journey from a hands-on implementer to VP of Sales.
• Implementation Challenges [00:03:00]
  • Transition from traditional methods to PLM systems.
  • The gap between decision-makers and implementers.
• Approaching PLM Implementation [00:07:00]
  • Analyzing current vs. future state.
  • Importance of process understanding over mere software usage.
• Involving Various Stakeholders [00:08:00]
  • Incorporating input from IT, engineering, and external consultants.
  • Understanding integration with other systems.
• Legacy Data Consideration [00:20:00]
  • Challenges and strategies for integrating existing data.
  • Importance of data consistency and quality.
• System Configuration and Customization [00:29:00]
  • Balancing out-of-the-box features with custom needs.
  • Learning from implementation phases.
• Organizational Change Management [00:31:00]
  • Training focused on process rather than just software functionality.
  • Ensuring user acceptance and continuous support.
• Post-Implementation Strategies [00:42:00]
  • Ongoing system maintenance and upgrades.
  • Adapting to changing business requirements.

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 insightful episode of "Stay Sharp with Razorleaf," hosts Jen and Jonathan delve into the nuanced world of Bills of Material (BOMs), with a particular focus on Engineering Bills of Material (EBOMs) and Manufacturing Bills of Material (MBOMs). 

As they dissect the differences, purposes, structures, and applications of these BOMs, listeners are offered a deep dive into the complexities and practicalities of managing multiple BOMs in product development and manufacturing.

Key Highlights:

• Introduction to BOMs:
  • Understanding the fundamental role of BOMs in product development.
  • Clarification of the concept and importance of different types of BOMs.
• EBOMs vs. MBOMs:
  • Detailed exploration of EBOMs, their genesis in the engineering phase, and their design-centric focus.
  • Insight into MBOMs, emphasizing their critical role in the manufacturing process and detailing assembly steps.
  • Comparative analysis of the structures and details of EBOMs and MBOMs.
• Single vs. Multiple BOMs:
  • Discussion on the challenges and inefficiencies of using a single BOM for all departments.
  • The necessity and advantages of adopting multiple BOM views for different departments.
• Practical Applications and Challenges:
  • Real-world examples illustrating the challenges of managing different BOMs.
  • Strategies for maintaining consistency and synchronization between EBOMs and MBOMs.
• Complexity in Product Variants:
  • Exploring the implications of product line engineering on BOM management.
  • Addressing the complexities of managing BOMs for product families and variants.

Follow us on your favorite podcast platform for more episodes on digital transformation and manufacturing insights!

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.

Dive into the world of intelligent part numbering with Episode 16 of "Stay Sharp with Razorleaf"! Join hosts Jen and Jonathan as they unravel the complexities and reveal the hidden gems of this crucial manufacturing practice. 

Discover its rich history and get an insider's view on the evolution and strategic importance of part numbering. 

From the nuances of logistics and inventory management to the intricacies of product development, this episode is packed with real-world scenarios that bring the topic to life. Tune in for these key moments:

05:15: Jonathan Scott begins discussing the historical context of part numbering.
12:30: An in-depth look at the evolution of intelligent part numbering in manufacturing.
20:45: Discussion on the challenges and benefits of implementing intelligent part numbering.
30:10: Real-world examples and case studies highlighting the impact of part numbering on various manufacturing processes.
40:25: Listener questions and insights on part numbering.
48:50: Closing remarks

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, Juliann and Jonathan sit down with John Salyers and Korey Greene of Sea Box, a company transforming standard shipping containers into high-engineering, mission-ready solutions.

This is a refreshingly honest look at a PLM journey filled with false starts, side-hustle implementation work, CAD file chaos, revision control challenges, and the realities of deploying PLM in a fast-moving engineering organization.
John and Korey share how Sea Box went from a home-grown Microsoft Access database that crashed “every other day” to a modern PLM system tied directly to CAD, BOMs, and ERP. They walk through what they would do differently, what worked, and how the engineering + project-management partnership has been key to moving everything forward.

If you’re on your own PLM or ERP journey, you’ll hear something familiar in their story—and you’ll walk away with practical lessons to avoid the same pitfalls.

Key Takeaways

• False starts happen—and they’re recoverable.
Sea Box had to abandon their first PLM integrator and restart the project, losing time and budget in the process.

• “Just stand it up” creates long-term debt.
Rushing to replicate old systems (like their EPN database) created unnecessary customization and downstream headaches.

• CAD chaos is a universal pain point.
Without revision control and file governance, something as simple as quoting a replacement part becomes a scavenger hunt.

• CAD Connector changed everything.
Push/pull of CAD models, drawings, and revisions now ties engineering design directly to BOMs and ERP.

• ERP forced better discipline.
Migrating to Business Central required rigor around BOM structure, revision control, and part history.

• Multi-perspective leadership matters.
A PM + engineer co-admin partnership allowed them to weigh impact on both engineering workflows and business processes.

• Community accelerates progress.
Sea Box credits the Razorleaf community and user conference for solving problems they thought were unique.

• Always use a dev environment.
You will break things. You should. But do it safely.

If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow the podcast, leave us a rating, or share your biggest takeaway in the comments.

Have a topic you'd like us to explore next? Email us at podcast@razorleaf.com.

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.

Thanks for tuning into Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, your secret weapon for all things digital in manufacturing.

In this episode, our team invited Pat Hume, CEO of Canvas GFX, to talk about how digitalization is changing the way people work. Pat shared how this particular topic – changing the way people work -  became her passion when she took on the CEO role at Canvas.  She deeply cares about the teams working on the factory floor and is developing innovative solutions to improve the quality of the information for the front line to help ease the workforce challenges in manufacturing. Join Jonathan, Jen and Pat, as they explored what the top workforce challenges are on the factory floor, and how Canvas GFX is intent on helping manufacturing organizations overcome them. 

Let’s tune in with the team…

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.

Thank you for tuning in to Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, your secret weapon for all things digital and manufacturing. 

Understanding the scope of shop floor technologies, particularly manufacturing execution systems and process planning, can be a challenge. 

In this episode, hosts Jonathan and Jen engage in a conversation with industry veteran Darrell Sabourin from iBase-t, who is our subject matter expert in MES and process planning and has seen it all in manufacturing and engineering throughout his 40 plus year career. 

Darrell sheds light on all corners of the shop floor, offering a unique perspective and simplifying complex concepts. 

Tune in for this mini-tutorial on MES and process planning, presented in a way that provides fresh insights and clarity.

Show note links:
Darrel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrell-sabourin-96628666/
Darrell’s Band: https://stonecountyct.com/
iBase-t:  https://www.ibaset.com/
NIST:  https://www.nist.gov/

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.

Thanks for tuning into Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, your secret weapon for everything digital in manufacturing.

In this episode, Eric Doubell and Jen Ferello invited Peter Schroer, former CEO of Aras Corporation, to join the podcast to share some insights about the state of PLM, now that Peter is officially retired.  

Eric and Peter reflect on what has changed in PLM and, more interestingly, what hasn’t changed since he founded Aras over two decades ago.  

While acronyms and technology have evolved to embrace new thinking, the common business problems remain the same.  

Peter shares his candid insights on what he thinks is the real issue is underlying PLM adoption in manufacturing.  

Tune in with Eric, Peter and Jen, to hear some the hard truths about PLM today.

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.

Thanks for tuning into Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, your secret weapon for all things digital in manufacturing. 

In this episode, Jonathan and Jen are joined by Ron Fritz, CEO of Tech Soft 3D, a well-known provider of engineering toolkits that establish the building blocks that developers depend on to give their applications more 3D power. It’s all under the hood, so if you are in digital manufacturing, you have likely benefited from their technology.  

Ron shares his unique perspective of the digital manufacturing space, where it’s been, and where it is going. 

The conversation covers the basics of platform evolution with Windows and Mac, to Cloud and mobile apps, gaming, and even standards, or the lack thereof, in the industry.  

Join in and listen to Ron and our Razorleaf team take a look back together.

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.

Thanks for tuning in to Stay Sharp with Razor Leaf, your secret weapon for all things digital and manufacturing.
In this episode, Jonathan Scott and Jen Ferello examine what makes an enterprise model-based. They break down the many acronyms around all the concepts for model-based, like MBD, which often references model-based design. But can also be a reference for model-based definition. And they are very different things. This episode will help you better understand the various concepts and acronyms associated with model-based systems and prepare your organization for this shift that is happening across engineering and production teams and manufacturing organizations.

Mentioned links:
Deloitte diagram
IDE webinar
IBase-T webinar
Podcast

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.

Thanks for tuning in to Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, your secret weapon for all things digital and manufacturing. In today's episode, we delve into the world of Integrated Digital Environments (IDEs). Join Jonathan, Jen, and special guest Steve Nichols, who leads Razorleaf's government business sector, for an informative discussion.

Steve brings a wealth of experience, having witnessed the adoption of IDEs in government operations. He shares insights into why IDEs are transitioning from government use to commercial manufacturing industries, including aerospace, automotive, and industrial equipment. This episode is a deep dive into what an IDE is, its key components, and how it supports a digital thread. It's a must-listen for any organization considering integrating IDEs into their digital engineering strategy.

Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of Integrated Digital Environments with Stay Sharp and Razorleaf.

IDE webinar: https://www.razorleaf.com/resources/webinars/on-demand-webinar-creating-digital-threads-and-ides-to-support-digitial-engineering-programs/

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.

Thanks for tuning in to Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, your secret weapon for all things digital and manufacturing.

In this episode, Jonathan Scott and Jen Ferello are joined by Eric Doubell, Razorleaf's CEO, and take a tour around the digital engineering industry to distinguish who's who in the zoo and what they do.

They aim to clarify the roles and functions of various players in this complex field. Delving into the intricacies of technology purchasing, they address key questions: Should you buy directly from an OEM or a reseller? What exactly does a systems integrator do? Plus, they weigh the pros and cons of engaging with different types of organizations. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the digital manufacturing landscape. It offers a comprehensive roadmap for navigating the array of vendors, their offerings, and when to connect with them.

We're delighted to have you with us on Stay Sharp!
Don't miss this enlightening and engaging episode of Stay Sharp 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.

Thanks for tuning into Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, your secret weapon for all things digital in manufacturing.

Today’s episode talks about what is involved when migrating data from one system to another. There are many schools of thought of what data migration is, and Jonathan Scott and Jen Ferello break it all down.  Jonathan outlines all the things that need to be considered when planning a data migration.  

• Do you need to move ALL your data to a new system or just some of it? 
• What about the old data that you don’t want to eliminate quite yet? 
• What kind of vocabulary is used around data? 
• What about security? 

If you are considering or in the process of managing a data migration project, listen in and be well prepared for the hidden challenges in the process.

Let’s listen in with Jonathan and Jen.

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.

Thanks for tuning in to Stay Sharp with Razorleaf!
This episode covers the many buzzwords associated with software today, from digital transformation, digital twins, digital thread, and all those spin-out concepts - to AI, blockchain, and more.
Your hosts, Jonathan and Jen, wind their way through the vocabulary of digital technology. 
Once again, we appreciate you tuning into Stay Sharp!

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.

Welcome to this week's episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf! 

In today's episode, your hosts, Jonathan and Jen, are pleased to welcome Derek Neiding, Vice President of Sales at Razorleaf Corporation, who is considered Razorleaf's first employee! Derek joins the discussion to delve into the question of whether PLM systems are merely another cog in the machinery of engineering or something much more. He shares insightful perspectives on the consequences of perceiving PLM as an engineering system, as well as the diverse impacts that can be harnessed when PLM is employed strategically.

Don't miss this informative and engaging episode of Stay Sharp 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 Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with globally recognized PLM pioneer Dr. Martin Eigner to unpack the evolving landscape of PLM, digital threads, configuration management, and cross-enterprise integration.

Dr. Eigner brings decades of research, academic leadership, and industry experience to dissect topics many engineering leaders struggle with:
  • What configuration items really are
  • Why extended digital threads matter
  • Why companies are starting to value integration more than best-of-breed functionality
  • How PLM, ERP, MES and requirements tools must work together
  • Why AI and graph databases could shape the next phase of engineering digitization

This is a dense, high-value conversation for anyone looking to modernize engineering systems, understand digital transformation beyond buzzwords, or align organizational leadership around PLM strategy. 

Key Takeaways

● Configuration items span far beyond CAD models; there are typically 200–300 essential objects across the product lifecycle—from requirements to manufacturing process plans.

● A PLM system is only one piece of product lifecycle management; the full lifecycle includes concept, requirements, engineering, production, service, and recycling.

● Many companies now see integration as more valuable than functional specialization.

● The extended digital thread connects configuration items across systems, enabling true change impact analysis.

● Legacy systems create siloed data; extended threads aim to mask these silos through better connectivity.

● Graph databases may be essential to future PLM and digital-thread performance.

● Organizational challenges—not technology—are the biggest roadblocks to transformation.

● Change requires leadership ownership, better alignment between vertical and horizontal teams, and sometimes a rethink of organizational structure.

Memorable Quote

“There’s a trend that companies are evaluating integration higher than best-in-function—and that is new, but extremely important.” — Dr. Martin Eigner 

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.

Welcome to this week's episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf! 

In today's discussion, your hosts, Jonathan and Jen, dive deep into the vast landscape of Product Data Management (PDM) and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM). Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the foundational concepts, historical context, and critical importance of these pillars within the realm of product development.

Don't miss this informative and engaging episode of Stay Sharp 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.

Welcome to this week's episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf!

In today's show, we're delving into the exciting world of integrations and uncovering the secrets of seamlessly transferring data from one system to another. Join us as we explore the vital role that this process plays in optimizing your workflow.

To shed light on this intriguing topic, we're thrilled to welcome a special guest, Tim Noce. Tim is not just any guest; he's the Vice President of Products at Razorleaf, where he lives, eats, and breathes integrations day in and day out. Tim will share his expert insights and knowledge, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to master the art of data flow and system integration.

Tune in now to learn from the best in the field, and discover how integrations can revolutionize your operations. Don't miss this informative and engaging episode of Stay Sharp 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 "Stay Sharp with Razorleaf," hosts Jonathan Scott and Jen Ferello take a deep dive into the complex realm of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) and the indispensable PLM systems.

The dynamic discussion centers around:

PLM: A powerful approach to managing the entire product life cycle. Jonathan and Jen delve into the versatility and the pivotal role of PLM in the world of manufacturing.

System: They highlight the significance of a dedicated PLM system and how it acts as the digital backbone, offering centralized management and seamless connectivity of diverse data types.

Functions: The hosts explore the multifaceted capabilities of PLM systems, spanning requirements management, design data management, bill of material management, process management, and more. They emphasize how these functions streamline processes and enhance collaboration within organizations.

Data: Data is at the heart of PLM, and Jonathan and Jen discuss the importance of maintaining and securing data, ensuring version control, and organizing it for different roles and access levels.

Management: The hosts discuss how PLM systems provide the much-needed structure for efficient product data management throughout its life cycle. They address key aspects such as change and project management, showcasing how they contribute to a more organized and productive workflow.

Throughout the episode, Jonathan and Jen also explore whether businesses must employ a dedicated PLM system or if managing PLM manually with a combination of tools can suffice.

They underline the benefits of dedicated PLM systems, particularly for businesses seeking scalability and efficiency in their product development processes.

Don't miss this enlightening and informative journey into the world of PLM on "Stay Sharp 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.

Welcome to Episode 2 of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, where we explore all things digital related to products and manufacturing. In this episode, hosts Jen Ferello and Jonathan Scott delve into the essential business systems that every organization involved in manufacturing needs. As they discuss these critical systems, you'll discover that the digital landscape encompasses more than just PLM and CAD.

Episode Highlights:

1. Exploring the Digital Landscape in Manufacturing
Jen and Jonathan kick things off by clearly showing the types of organizations we're talking about.

We break down the manufacturing process into critical stages, giving you a comprehensive view of what's involved. Get ready to learn about Ideation/Definition, Design/Development, Manufacturing, Marketing/Sales, and Post-Sale.

2. Navigating the Business Systems Landscape We dive into the nitty-gritty details!

In the first phase, Ideation/Definition, we delve into Customer Relationship Management (CRM), social networks, and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM).

Transitioning to the Design/Development phase, we explore Mechanical and Electronic CAD (MCAD/ECAD), Product Data Management (PDM/PLM), and Simulation.

As we hit the Manufacturing phase, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Material Requirements Planning (MRP), Supply Chain Management (SCM), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), and Quality Management Systems (QMS) take center stage.

Then, it's Marketing/Sales, where we circle back to CRM.

Finally, in the Post-Sale phase, we delve into the Internet of Things (IoT), Maintenance, Repair, Operations (MRO), and Supply Chain Management (SCM).

3. Embracing complexity

Have you ever wondered if you can handle this with a simple tool like Excel? We address the complexity of managing these systems and emphasize their pivotal role in manufacturing.

Beyond the primary phases, we discuss the human element and the people who make it happen. Think ERP/HRMS training, warehouse management, distribution, and more.

4. Seeing the Bigger Picture

The discussion extends to encompass additional considerations, such as finance, sustainability, and the exchange of goods.
We underline the importance of a holistic approach to navigating the intricacies of manufacturing.

Thank you for tuning in and supporting our podcast! Join us for more insightful discussions in future episodes of Staying Sharp 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.

Welcome to the first episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf. Today, we're introducing our new podcast, which we started with the goal of diving deep into the world of digital transformation, technology, and processes. Get ready for an insightful discussion on how Razorleaf is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry.

Meet Your Hosts:

Jonathan Scott: Chief Architect at Razorleaf Corporation, PLM expert.
Jen Ferello: Sr. Director of Partnerships and Alliances at Razorleaf, technology enthusiast.
Eric Doubell: CEO of Razorleaf, industry veteran with 25+ years of experience.

What's Our Podcast's Mission?
We aim to educate our listeners about the dynamic landscape of digital manufacturing. Product development has evolved rapidly, and we're here to connect you with insights, solutions, and key players in the industry. Our goal is to break down information silos and make the digital transformation more accessible.

Key Discussion Points:

• Digital Transformation: Exploring the ever-evolving landscape of digital transformation and its impact on manufacturing.
• Technology and PLM: Understanding how technology and product lifecycle management (PLM) go hand in hand.
• Razorleaf's Expertise: Discover how Razorleaf is helping innovative manufacturing organizations streamline their processes and bring new products to market.
• Solving Industry Problems: Our mission is to make a difference and address manufacturing challenges on a larger scale.

Join us for insightful discussions on topics like PLM lifecycles, software, digital transformation trends, AI, and much more. Stay tuned for valuable insights that can transform the way you perceive digital manufacturing.

Thank you for tuning in to the first episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf. We're excited to embark on this journey of discovery with you. 

Be sure to subscribe for future episodes packed with knowledge and expertise in the world of digital transformation, technology, and processes. See you next time!

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.

Why Data Models Matter in Digital Engineering (Now More Than Ever)

In this episode, Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott dive deep into the growing conversation around data models in digital engineering. With increasing pressure to enable the digital thread, digital twins, and emerging AI capabilities, understanding how data is structured and why it varies across systems is more critical than ever.

Together, they unpack:

• What a data model really is and why “model” is the key word
• Why every engineering and business system represents data differently
• The mounting challenges created by siloed, mismatched data structures
• How digital twin initiatives have heightened the urgency for clean, connected data
• Real-world examples showing why context, meaning, and structure matter
• The risks and limitations of approaches like data lakes
• How manufacturers can begin evaluating, modeling, and aligning their data for desired business outcomes
• Why there will never be a universal data model — and why that’s okay
• Best practices for getting started, staying adaptable, and keeping data meaningful as technology evolves

This episode is especially relevant for anyone interested in:

• Digital Transformation
• PLM / PDM Modernization
• Digital Thread Initiatives
• Digital Twin Strategy
• AI Readiness in Engineering and Manufacturing

Notable Quote:

"If the AI doesn't understand the data, and it's just doing statistical prediction, the predictions can be junk. In a safety-critical situation, that's not cool." – Jonathan Scott 

Have questions or thoughts on this episode? Leave a comment or email podcast@razorleaf.com.

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 Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Jonathan Scott and Juliann Grant sit down with Oleg Shilovitsky, CEO and co-founder of OpenBOM, for a candid conversation about why so many engineering and manufacturing companies struggle with product data—and what they can do differently. Oleg breaks down the realities of managing product structure, BOMs, and cross-system data flow, and explains why connecting these elements early is essential for companies trying to scale.

The team explores the cultural, technical, and process-driven challenges organizations face when they attempt to modernize their digital infrastructure—especially when legacy tools, disconnected databases, and informal workflows get in the way.

Discussed In This Episode

The Product Data Gap:

Why companies often underestimate the complexity of product information—and how this gap causes friction between engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and procurement.

Document-Centric vs. Data-Centric Thinking:

Oleg explains why traditional document-driven approaches fall short and how a shift to connected, granular data changes everything. 

BOM Management Reality Check:

Why spreadsheets still dominate BOM management, when they break down, and how to transition to structured, traceable product data.

Connecting Systems, Not Just Software:

The pitfalls of building tools in isolation and why establishing a shared “system of product truth” prevents downstream chaos.

Cultural and Organizational Resistance:

Why digital transformation isn’t just a tooling problem—it’s a mindset challenge across teams who have “always done it this way.”

Scalability and Supply Chain Insight:

How connected product data improves visibility, reduces surprises, and helps companies navigate supply chain complexity.

Key Takeaways

•   Product information isn’t just CAD files—it’s a living structure that must stay connected across the entire company.

•   Moving from documents to data creates clarity, consistency, and the ability to scale.

•   Spreadsheets may feel convenient, but they break under pressure as products grow more complex.

•   A unified view of product structure strengthens communication between engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain.

•   True digital transformation only sticks when the organization aligns culturally—not just technologically.

Notable Quote

“You can build the best software in the world, but if the data is disconnected, nothing works. The magic happens when all the pieces come together.” — Oleg Shilovitsky 

Listen & Subscribe

Stay up to date on all things digital engineering—from PLM and BOM management to digital thread strategy.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or watch the conversation on YouTube. 

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 Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Razorleaf’s Vice President of Business Development, Derek Neiding, to unpack how manufacturers can start smart when implementing complex digital engineering systems like PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) and MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems). The trio explores practical strategies for setting up successful projects—from process analysis and system selection to executive alignment and user adoption.

In This Episode

• Getting Started Right: Why the “just start using the software” approach often backfires and how to balance speed with strategic vision.
• Building a Roadmap: The importance of aligning short-term goals with long-term growth so today’s choices don’t limit tomorrow’s innovation.
• Proof of Concept vs. Pilot vs. Quick Start: Derek breaks down what each approach actually means, when to use them, and how they fit together.
• Executive Buy-In and Business Cases: How to educate leadership, define success metrics, and prevent misalignment between tactical and strategic goals.
• Process Improvement and Adoption: Why optimizing processes first matters—and how education accelerates adoption rather than slowing it down.
• Consultants, Culture, and Customization: When to bring in outside expertise, how to balance it with internal knowledge, and how company culture shapes implementation success.

Key Takeaways

• Success isn’t about the software—it’s about alignment, education, and adaptability.
• A roadmap helps avoid costly restarts and ensures scalability as business needs evolve.
• Quick wins are important, but they must connect to a larger strategic vision.
• Every organization’s culture and maturity level should guide its implementation path.
• Adoption hinges on people understanding why changes are happening, not just what to click.
  
  

Notable Quote

“Education isn’t a delay—it’s an accelerator. At some point, you’ll need to know how these systems connect, so you can either learn it when everything’s on the floor or before you start.” — Derek Nieding

Listen & Subscribe

Stay up to date on all things digital engineering—from PLM and MES to digital thread strategy.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or watch on YouTube.

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 Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott continue their digital product series with Eric Schrader, Chief Product Officer at Propel Software. Together, they explore how Propel’s Product Value Management (PVM) platform expands beyond traditional PLM to unify teams, processes, and data across the entire product lifecycle—from concept to customer.

Eric, a serial entrepreneur and product leader with experience at Agile Software, Coupa, and BetterWorks, shares how Propel’s SaaS solution helps high-tech, medtech, and consumer goods companies connect engineering, quality, and go-to-market teams around a single digital thread of product information.

💡 Key Topics Covered

• What is Product Value Management (PVM)?
  •  Eric explains how PVM connects every stage of a product’s journey—engineering, manufacturing, quality, marketing, and customer support—creating a unified “product thread.” Unlike traditional PLM, PVM bridges the gap between technical and commercial data, democratizing access to product information across departments.
• Technology Behind Propel
  •  Built on the Salesforce Platform, Propel leverages the scalability, data security, and AI capabilities of Salesforce while maintaining its independence as an OEM provider. Eric shares how the team uses Flow for low-code automation, Lightning Web Components for custom UIs, and Agentforce AI to deliver context-aware assistance—transforming PLM from a static database into a dynamic, guided experience.
• AI & the Future of Product Management
  •  Propel is pushing PLM into the AI era by using agent-based automation and large language model (LLM) integrations to extract value from unstructured data—like reading product documents and generating training quizzes or summarizing change requests in seconds.

If you’re curious how modern PLM platforms are evolving into connected, intelligent ecosystems that empower both engineers and marketers, this episode offers a clear, practical look at how PVM redefines collaboration, compliance, and customer value.

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 Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott continue the Digital Product Series with a deep dive into First Resonance, a company redefining how modern manufacturers operate.

Our guest, Devin Patel, Head of Solutions at First Resonance, shares how their flagship platform ION—a modular, data-driven factory operating system—helps manufacturers move fast without losing control. From aerospace and defense to climate tech, robotics, and energy, First Resonance empowers teams to prototype quickly, scale complex hardware production, and stay agile in an ever-changing market.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How First Resonance differs from traditional MES and ERP systems
  
  
• Why speed with control is the key to modern manufacturing
  
  
• The kinds of companies best suited for ION (hint: advanced, complex hardware)
  
  
• Real-world examples, including how Epirus went from prototype to field-ready product in under a year
  
  
• How First Resonance’s culture, rooted in the “SpaceX Mafia” spirit, fuels rapid iteration and innovation
  
  
• Where the company is heading with agentic AI, automation, and adaptive manufacturing
  
  

Devin also shares insights into the company’s origins, customer-first approach, and how they’re working to give a 10-person startup the same visibility and control as an enterprise manufacturer—all while maintaining startup speed.

If you’ve ever wondered how digital manufacturing is evolving beyond rigid, legacy systems, this conversation will open your eyes to what’s possible.

👉 Subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube, and stay tuned for more episodes in the Digital Product Series.

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, the team reconnects with Michael Finocchiaro to unpack his research into 300+ startups transforming the digital engineering landscape. From PLM and CAD to industrial AI and adaptive manufacturing, Michael reveals how new technologies, global innovation hubs, and AI-driven design tools are reshaping how products are developed, simulated, and produced.

Listeners will gain a data-driven look at where agility, investment, and artificial intelligence are fueling the next wave of disruption in digital twin, simulation, MES, and smart manufacturing ecosystems.

Key Takeaways

• Innovation in digital engineering is no longer centralized. Emerging players from North America, Europe, and Asia are building faster, more agile systems that challenge industry giants.
  
  
• AI isn’t just a feature—it’s a foundation. From design automation to code refactoring and predictive analytics, startups are embedding intelligence across every phase of the product lifecycle.
  
  
• The economic model for engineering software is changing: token-based consumption, multi-agent systems, and new interoperability standards could disrupt traditional licensing structures.
  
  
• The future of PLM is modular, AI-assisted, and built by an ecosystem—not a single vendor.
  
  

About the Guest

Michael Finocchiaro is a Franco-American technology evangelist, consultant, and recognized voice in PLM, digital twin, and engineering software. With over 30 years of experience at HP, IBM, PTC, and Dassault Systèmes, he now advises startups, VCs, and enterprise clients on competitive strategy and digital transformation.

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, the Razorleaf team continues the Digital Product Series by spotlighting Propel Software—a next-generation PLM company built on the Salesforce platform. Juliann and Jonathan sit down with Tom Shoemaker, VP of Product Marketing at Propel, to explore how the company is redefining product lifecycle management by unifying engineering, sales, marketing, and service.

Tom shares how Propel bridges the gap between product development and commercialization, enabling manufacturers to bring products to market faster through connected data, collaboration, and AI.

💡 Key Topics Discussed

• The Propel Vision
Propel helps manufacturers manage everything required to make, market, sell, and service products successfully—not just engineering data. By combining PLM, QMS, and PIM in one platform, Propel helps unify the product journey from concept to customer.

• Built on Salesforce
Propel was founded in 2015 to modernize PLM using the Salesforce platform. By leveraging Salesforce’s proven infrastructure, Propel focuses on business logic, collaboration, and innovation—allowing customers to scale faster with open, configurable systems.

• Industry Focus & Use Cases
Propel is designed for discrete manufacturers that rely on contract manufacturing and global supply chains, including:

• MedTech and medical device manufacturers
• High-tech and consumer electronics
• Industrial equipment and smart home technologies
• Consumer products with configurable or long-life products

• Success Story: Savant & GE Lighting
Savant Industries, owner of the GE Lighting brand, adopted Propel to streamline product management and accelerate commercialization. Results include:

• 📈 35% revenue growth in 2 years
• ⚡ 74% faster product introduction cycles
• 💼 50% reduction in order entry labor

 Notably, after acquiring a new company, Savant ingested all product data and commercialized it the same day using Propel’s unified Salesforce-powered system.

• Product Value Management (PVM)
Tom introduces the concept of Product Value Management (PVM)—a unified approach that combines PLM, QMS, and PIM to drive both cost reduction and revenue growth, while mitigating risk across the product lifecycle.

• The Future: AI + Interoperability
Propel’s next phase centers on AI-driven automation (Propel One) and multi-CAD interoperability.

• AI is embedded with guardrails for data trust and human oversight.
• New tools will simplify CAD-to-PLM integration across mechanical, electrical, and PDM systems—reducing complexity and cost for engineering teams.

Learn more about Propel Software at propelsoftware.com.

Got questions for Tom or thoughts on this episode? Leave a comment or email podcast@razorleaf.com.

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.

AI may dominate headlines, but the real transformation in product development is happening elsewhere—in how teams manage complexity across mechanics, electronics, and software without slowing time to market.

In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott continue their conversation on Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) with Eran Reinshmidt and Safae El Abkari of Dassault Systèmes. This discussion moves beyond aerospace and defense to explore how MBSE is reshaping consumer product development—from small appliances and power tools to connected products and manufacturing systems.

The conversation dives into virtual prototyping, multidisciplinary collaboration, faster trade studies, platform thinking, product line engineering, and why MBSE is becoming essential for consumer companies that need speed without chaos.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Why consumer products now face the same complexity challenges as aerospace systems
• How MBSE enables parallel work across mechanical, electrical, and software teams
• Using virtual prototypes to test software months earlier than physical builds
• How parametric trade studies unlock better product decisions without slowing timelines
• The role of MBSE in product line engineering, modularity, and upgradeability
• Why verification and validation must start earlier—and happen continuously
• How MBSE principles are extending into manufacturing and factory variability
  
  
  

👤 Guest Information

 Eran Reinshmidt
Solution Leader, Consumer Industries – Dassault Systèmes
Over 20 years of experience spanning furniture, home goods, appliances, sporting goods, apparel, and connected products.

Safae El Abkari
PhD, Engineering Sciences
Leads the Perfectly Connected Product Solution at Dassault Systèmes, specializing in multidisciplinary product development and MBSE adoption.

👉 Follow both guests on LinkedIn for insights on MBSE and consumer product innovation.

If this episode helped clarify how MBSE applies beyond aerospace:

• Subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering on your favorite podcast platform
• Share this episode with a colleague working in product development or manufacturing
• Leave a review to help more listeners find the show

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 Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Devin Patel, Head of Solutions at First Resonance, to explore how manufacturing companies—startups and established players alike—can rethink the way they build and scale their operations.

Devin shares insights on moving away from traditional monolithic systems like ERP and MES toward a more modular, data-driven approach that prioritizes flexibility, scalability, and real-world results. Together, they dive into:

●      Why a strong data footprint matters more than rigid systems.

●      How cloud computing, open APIs, and AI are enabling faster, more nimble manufacturing strategies.

●      Real-world examples from aerospace, energy, and medical device companies that are embracing modular approaches.

●      The unique challenges (and advantages) startups face compared to large, established manufacturers.

●      The role of digital thread and digital twins in creating visibility, traceability, and agility across teams.
 
From building satellites and space thrusters to streamlining complex assembly, Devin explains how manufacturers can transform operations by solving one problem at a time—without years-long IT projects.

If you’ve ever wondered how to build a future-proof digital backbone for manufacturing, this episode offers a blueprint for rethinking the status quo.

🔗 Resources & Links

●      Learn more about First Resonance

●      Connect with Devin Patel on LinkedIn

●      Subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering for more conversations on digital transformation in 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 Overview

In this episode, the Razorleaf team unpacks insights from the Global Product Data Interoperability Summit (GPDIS) in Phoenix — one of the industry’s most collaborative events where aerospace and manufacturing leaders come together to solve shared challenges around data, digital engineering, and interoperability.

From AI skepticism to digital thread strategy, Juliann, Jonathan, Tony, and François discuss what’s changing fast, what’s still a struggle, and why cooperation between competitors like Boeing, Airbus, and Lockheed Martin is key to advancing the industry.

💡 Key Topics Discussed

• Event Overview & Collaboration
GPDIS brings together major OEMs, suppliers, and vendors from across aerospace, defense, and manufacturing to discuss digital transformation challenges. Despite being competitors, attendees openly shared lessons and standards to advance interoperability across systems and companies.

• AI in Aerospace
Artificial intelligence dominated conversations—but with healthy skepticism. Attendees debated AI’s limits, data accuracy, and the future role of AI in engineering workflows.

• Digital Thread Maturity
The “digital thread” remained the central theme. While most companies are still building point-to-point integrations, speakers emphasized the need for hub-and-spoke models and long-term data strategies to achieve true interoperability.

• MBSE on the Factory Floor
A strong focus on model-based systems engineering (MBSE) emerged, highlighting how manufacturing itself should be viewed as a system that benefits from model-based practices.

• Emerging Standards: DDP, TDP & CASCADE
Jonathan shared updates on evolving data standards like Digital Data Packages (DDP) and Technical Data Packages (TDP)—and how new frameworks such as CASCADE aim to improve how organizations link and share digital data.

• Legacy Systems & Integration Challenges
Many manufacturers are still running decade-old PLM and ERP systems, which complicates integration and modernization efforts. François noted that upgrading legacy systems is often the biggest barrier to achieving a seamless digital thread.

• Governance & Co-Creation
Tony and François emphasized that successful digital transformation requires joint ownership between engineering and IT—not siloed efforts. Strong governance and “co-creation” across teams are critical to managing PLM evolution and integration projects.

🧭 Key Takeaways

• Collaboration > Competition: True interoperability demands industry-wide cooperation and shared standards.
  
  
• AI Is Not a Silver Bullet: It’s a powerful tool, but human oversight remains essential—especially in safety-critical industries.
  
  
• Legacy Systems Hold Back Progress: Companies must modernize infrastructure before pursuing advanced digital thread initiatives.
  
  
• Governance Matters: Structured decision frameworks and cross-functional collaboration are essential for scaling PLM and MBSE efforts.
  
  
• Digital Thread Is a Journey: Most organizations are still early in building connected, intelligent ecosystems across engineering, manufacturing, and supply chains.
  
  

🗣️ Memorable Quote

“Everybody raise your hand—who wants to fly in a plane built entirely by AI?”

🔗 Connect with Razorleaf

Visit Razorleaf.com for insights, solutions, and resources on PLM, digital thread, and systems integration.

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 Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott welcome back Steve Nichols, head of Razorleaf Government Solutions, to explore how digital engineering is transforming government contracts and supply chains.

From DOD digital engineering requirements to data rights and risk management, they unpack what contractors—especially small businesses—need to know to stay competitive. 

The conversation covers:

• How digital engineering requirements impact primes, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Why awareness is as important as readiness when pursuing federal contracts.
• The role of digital twin, digital thread, and model-based systems engineering (MBSE) in government programs.
• Strategies for small business teaming and winning set-aside work.
• Navigating data rights, intellectual property protection, and information sharing.
• Factoring the cost of digital deliverables—from CAD models to lifecycle data—into bids.
• Building strong government–industry relationships through collaboration, industry days, and broad agency announcements (BAAs).

Whether you’re a prime contractor, a subcontractor, or a supplier in the defense and aerospace sector, this episode offers practical insights into meeting digital engineering compliance and shaping better outcomes for government customers.

🎧 Listen now and learn how to integrate digital engineering best practices into your government program strategy.

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 Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Mark Borcher from Razorleaf Government Solutions to tackle a rarely discussed but critical topic: retiring legacy business systems.

Mark brings nearly two decades of experience in engineering, system integration, and enterprise transformation, and he shares what really goes into shutting down old PLM, ERP, CRM, and supply chain systems—and moving organizations onto modern platforms.

From outdated DOS-based tools to massive migrations involving hundreds of systems, Mark explains the technical, organizational, and people-related obstacles that can derail a system retirement—and how to overcome them.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• When it’s time to retire a system — from end-of-life support to functionality gaps and security risks.
• How to plan a smooth transition — data archiving, cleaning up “junk” data, and mapping functionality to modern tools.
• The biggest roadblocks organizations face — user resistance, licensing challenges, security concerns, and integration hurdles.
• Why people are the hardest (and most important) part — strategies for training, managing change, and turning skeptics into champions.
• Mark’s best advice — focus on data cleanliness, open communication, and embracing change as an opportunity, not a burden.

Whether you’re sunsetting a small PDM tool or migrating hundreds of interconnected legacy systems, this conversation will help you understand the hidden challenges—and how to get ahead of them.

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 Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we sit down with Frank Patz-Brockmann, Chief Product & Technology Officer at CONTACT Software, to explore one of the most mature yet under-the-radar platforms in the PLM space.

Frank shares how CONTACT Software—best known in Germany but lesser-known in North America—has evolved from its early days as "CIM Database" into the highly modular and extensible platform now known as CONTACT Elements.

We cover:

• The origins and evolution of the CONTACT Elements platform
• What makes their modular “elements” approach unique—like a periodic table for PLM, MES, and IoT
• The powerful integration between PLM, MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), and IIoT
• Use cases where customers seamlessly connect engineering and shop floor data
• Why many global clients are choosing CONTACT’s cloud deployment options (SaaS, PaaS, and hybrid)
• How CONTACT's long-standing use of Python and open APIs empowers extensibility
• The rise of energy-aware manufacturing and AI-enabled analytics
  
  
  

Key takeaway:
 CONTACT Software might just be one of the most powerful, composable digital engineering platforms you’ve never heard of—until now.

🔗 Learn more: contact-software.com

📩 Questions or feedback? Email us at podcast@raiseleaf.com or leave a comment wherever you listen.

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—every click helps spread the word.

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 special 100th episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, the team celebrates with a twist—turning the show into a game of acronym bingo! Host Juliann welcomes back Jennifer Ferello, alongside Jonathan Scott and Eric Doubell, for a fast-paced contest to identify 100 acronyms from the world of digital engineering, PLM, and beyond.

Expect laughter, a few stumpers, plenty of partial credit, and who will be ultimately crowned the “King/Queen of PLM.” The crew reflects on the fun (and occasional frustration) of decoding acronyms while celebrating the milestone with listeners who made it all possible.

👑 Acronyms, banter, and bingo—what better way to mark 100 episodes?

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 Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with AI expert Alex Bruskin to cut through the hype and explore the real impact of artificial intelligence on the world of digital engineering. From the history of AI and its convergence of compute power, algorithms, and data — to practical, high-value use cases in PLM, CAD, MBSE, and manufacturing — Alex explains where AI truly adds value, where human oversight is essential, and how organizations can prepare their data for successful adoption.

Whether you’re curious about AI-driven data enrichment, smarter migration projects, or bridging the gap between engineering documentation and manufacturing, this conversation is packed with insights and actionable examples.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why AI’s current capabilities are less about “intelligence” and more about prediction
  
  
  
• How the “language of engineering” can benefit from large language models
  
  
  
• Why training data quality is critical — and how to keep a human in the loop
  
  
  
• Real-world AI use cases in digital engineering:
  
  
  
  • Data enrichment for cleaner, more searchable part databases
    
    
    
  • Accelerating and improving PLM/CAD data migrations
    
    
    
  • Automating PDF-to-digital conversions for technical publications
    
    
    
• The difference between generative AI and specialized solvers — and how they work together
  
  
  

Links & Resources:

• Follow Alex Bruskin on LinkedIn
  
  
  
• Contact Razorleaf: podcast@razorleaf.com
  
  
  
• Watch this episode on YouTube
  
  
  
• Subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering for more conversations on digital transformation, PLM, and manufacturing innovation
  
  
  

Enjoyed this episode? Follow Razorleaf’s Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, rate the show in your favorite podcast app, and share it with a colleague who’s exploring AI in engineering.

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 Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we kick off our Digital Product Series with a deep dive into CONTACT Software—a company that has been shaping the digital engineering space for over 30 years but remains relatively unknown in North America.

Our guest, Dimitri Baumtrok, Head of International Sales at CONTACT Software, joins Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott to share the company’s story, its global expansion, and its unique definition of digital engineering.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What is “Top Floor to Shop Floor”? How CONTACT Software connects innovation at the design stage with execution in manufacturing and beyond.
  
  
• Who They Serve: Why mid-sized and upper mid-sized companies are their sweet spot, and how industries from automotive to industrial machinery—and even fashion—benefit from their platform.
  
  
• The Secret’s Out: How a “best-kept secret” in Europe is expanding globally through partnerships, OEM collaborations, and customer-driven innovation.
  
  
• Company Culture & History: From its founding in the 1990s to today’s family-owned, privately held structure focused on “energizing great minds.”
  
  
• The Future of Digital Engineering: CONTACT’s vision for AI-driven product lifecycle management, mobile-first solutions, and international growth.
  
  

Dimitri also shares how CONTACT works closely with customers to co-develop solutions, ensuring their platform evolves alongside real-world needs.

If you’ve been curious about lesser-known players in the digital engineering space—or want to understand how CONTACT Elements stacks up against big-name PLM and MES providers—this is a must-listen.

🎧 Tune in to discover why CONTACT Software might just be digital engineering’s best-kept secret.

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 forward-looking episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with PLM authority Michael “Fino” Finocchiaro to unpack how AI, emerging startups, and evolving technologies are transforming the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) landscape. From industry giants like Dassault Systèmes, Siemens, and PTC to disruptive newcomers, the conversation covers current innovations, potential disruptors, and bold predictions—touching on everything from digital threads and agentic AI to quantum computing’s role in engineering.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How AI is reshaping PLM across major platforms like Dassault, Siemens, and PTC

• The rise of agent-based AI orchestration and cross-platform integration

• The role of startups—like Propel, Duro, and Aras—in pushing PLM forward

• Why quantum computing and advanced manufacturing could redefine the industry’s capabilities

• Emerging technologies beyond AI that could impact the future of PLM

• Insights into evolving business models and economic considerations for PLM adoption

If this episode was helpful, follow Razorleaf’s Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, share it with your PLM team, and rate/review in your podcast app.

Tell us what you’re testing next: agents, RAG search, or cloud PDM? Drop a comment and we may feature your question in a future episode.

Want more like this? Subscribe and get new episodes the moment they drop.

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 Part 2 of our conversation with MBSE expert David Long, we dive deeper into the evolution of model-based systems engineering, tracing its roots, tool development, and growing relevance across industries. You’ll hear how MBSE emerged as a way to improve communication between disciplines, especially between systems and software engineers, and why it's becoming an indispensable part of modern engineering practices.

We explore:

• The historical context and drivers behind MBSE
  
  
• The critical role of SysML v2 and why its release is a game-changer
  
  
• How MBSE enables cross-domain collaboration and digital thread continuity
  
  
• Key software tools and vendors shaping the MBSE ecosystem
  
  
• The convergence of PLM and MBSE in the age of digital transformation
  
  
• What MBSE has in common with the evolution from drafting to CAD
  
  

Whether you're a seasoned systems engineer or just learning about digital engineering, this episode offers an insightful look into the tools, standards, and thought leaders shaping the future.

🛠️ MBSE Tools & Platforms:

• Cameo Systems Modeler by Dassault Systèmes (formerly MagicDraw)
  
  
• Enterprise Architect by Sparx Systems
  
  
• Capella by Thales
  
  
• GENESYS by Vitech
  
  
• Innoslate by SPEC Innovations
  
  
• MBSE tools from Ansys and MathWorks
  
  

📚 Thought Leaders & Trainers:

• Sanford Friedenthal (SysML / MBSE thought leader)
  
  
• Ed Seidewitz (UML & SysML standards contributor)
  
  
• Lenny Delligatti – Author of SysML Distilled
  
  
• Tim Weilkiens – MBSE Trainer and Consultant
  
  

🧪 Standards Bodies:

• INCOSE (International Council on Systems Engineering)
  
  
• OMG (Object Management Group) – Developers of UML, SysML, UAF
  
  
  

🔗 Learn More About SysML v2:

• SysML v2 Initiative at OMG
  
  
• SysML v2 Release Updates & Resources
  
  

📩 Contact & Subscribe:

Have questions for David or our hosts? Leave a comment or email us at podcast@razorleaf.com.

👉 Be sure to subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering on your favorite podcast platform or watch full episodes on YouTube.

🔗 YouTube: Razorleaf YouTube Channel

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.

AI is everywhere right now—but in digital engineering and manufacturing, many leaders are still asking the same question: where does it actually help?

 In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Dr. Diego Tamburini of CIMdata to separate hype from implementation reality. With decades of experience spanning Microsoft, Autodesk, and Siemens Digital Industries, Diego shares how organizations are applying AI today—not in theory, but inside real engineering and manufacturing environments.

The discussion introduces five practical patterns of AI adoption, explains why many proof-of-concepts fail to scale, and explores emerging applications like AI-assisted workflows, predictive models, and natural-language interaction with engineering systems. Most importantly, the conversation reframes AI not as a technology trend, but as a decision framework leaders must apply carefully to solve the right problems.

Key Takeaways

• Why today’s AI surge is driven largely by generative AI exposure—not a sudden invention of new intelligence
• The five patterns companies are using to implement AI, from vendor-embedded tools to fully custom models
• How Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) allows organizations to connect AI across enterprise systems without retraining models
• Why many AI pilots fail due to unclear use cases, poor measurement, or data that cannot scale
• How AI is changing the way engineers interact with software—moving from menus to natural-language workflows
• Real industrial applications already delivering value, including predictive maintenance, quality analysis, and simulation acceleration
• The importance of aligning AI adoption with skills, governance, and measurable KPIs from the start

👤 Guest Information

Dr. Diego Tamburini
Executive Consultant, CIMdata
Leads the company’s AI practice, helping industrial organizations apply AI to digital engineering and manufacturing transformation.

Former Director of Engineering Agility at Microsoft, where he helped integrate AI into engineering workflows and marketplace platforms.

Previously held leadership and strategy roles at Autodesk and Siemens Digital Industries Software, with more than 25 years of experience in CAD, CAM, CAE, and PLM innovation.

 👉 Connect with Dr. Tamburini to learn more about practical AI adoption in industrial environments.

• If this episode helped clarify how AI fits into engineering and manufacturing:
• Subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering on your favorite podcast platform
• Share this episode with a colleague evaluating AI initiatives
• Leave a review to help more listeners find the show

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 Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Fernando Valera, Chief Technology Officer at Visure Solutions, to tackle one of the most complex challenges in modern product development: aligning hardware and software lifecycles through integrated requirements engineering.

With decades of experience in requirements management, Fernando offers deep insight into how PLM (Product Lifecycle Management), ALM (Application Lifecycle Management), and MBSE (Model-Based Systems Engineering) can come together to create smarter, faster, and safer product development cycles. The conversation also explores how AI is transforming requirements processes and what the future holds for digital engineering.

🔍 Topics Covered:

• What PLM and ALM really mean—and where requirements engineering fits in
  
  
• The cultural divide between hardware and software teams—and how to bridge it
  
  
• How systems engineering and MBSE provide a common language across domains
  
  
• The role of digital twins in syncing product cadences
  
  
• How AI is already improving requirements validation, traceability, and compliance
  
  
• Why system engineers are key players in modern product integration
  
  
• What organizations must consider when blending ALM and PLM in real-world use
  
  

🧠 Key Quotes:

“AI can now do 80% of what a requirements engineer does—but it’s the boring 80%.”
 “Digital twins are speeding up hardware development the same way DevOps transformed software.”
 “MBSE isn’t just about models. It’s about giving people better ways to see and simulate complexity.”

👤 Guest Bio:
Fernando Valera is a Certified Professional in Requirements Engineering and CTO at Visure Solutions. With over 20 years of experience helping organizations streamline complex product delivery, Fernando brings a global perspective and deep technical expertise to digital transformation initiatives in safety-critical industries.

📩 Got Questions?
 Drop us a comment on our LinkedIn post or email us at podcast@raise.com.

✅ Don’t forget to like and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform or watch the full episode on YouTube.

🎧 Stay sharp, and see you in the next episode!

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.