Wales to get first PLM Centre for SMEs

Manufacturing SMEs in Wales are to get access to substantial PLM (product lifecycle management) software, compute power and expertise, following agreement between the Welsh Assembly Government, IBM, Swansea University and the Welsh Development Agency. The deal means the UK’s first Centre of Excellence in PLM, initially for the Welsh automotive sector, to accelerate engineering development and lifecycle management. It will be at the new £9m Technium Auto project, currently being built at Dafen, Llanelli. Under the agreement, IBM will provide its PLM software and IBM eServer systems, and offer education, research, training and consultancy. Swansea University will also now host the first Centre of Advanced Studies in PLM, with collaboration from IBM, again providing PLM expertise to help design and implement coursework. Prof Richard Davies, vice chancellor Swansea University describes it as: “Bringing together world class research in the School of Engineering at Swansea and the commercial experience of a global company. [It] will enable the project to make a real difference to the economy of Wales.” Mike Kuklenko, IBM PLM solutions business director, IBM North Region, says IBM will be providing some 20 seats initially alongside consultancy. He sees it as part of a concerted effort by IBM to get young engineers and existing manufacturers harnessing new technology to the UK’s advantage. His only warning: “Tools alone are not enough if you’re going to compete with China and the Eastern Block.”