Sustainable PLM through a cloud-based solution
Why Cloud PLM is the more sustainable choice
The Paris Agreement has a clear objective: limiting global temperature rise to below two degrees Celsius. To achieve this goal, companies must reduce their carbon footprint significantly. One promising way to enhance the resource efficiency of the employed Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system is by utilizing cloud services. The shift to the cloud can be likened to carpooling, where the company's on-premises server is akin to one's own vehicle. In this example, it consumes substantial resources in the form of power to remain constantly operational. Cloud service providers act as carpools, sharing resources with multiple parties, eliminating the need for individual companies to operate extensive infrastructures. This not only saves resources but also enhances efficiency.
Discover why PLM in the cloud is the more sustainable choice compared to on-premises PLM software in this blog post.
On-premises versus cloud operation of PLM systems
On-premises or in the cloud – the operating models of PLM systems exhibit significant differences:
In on-premises operation, an internal server of the company hosts the PLM software, requiring capital-intensive investments in proprietary hardware and software. Local infrastructure is subject to a fixed capacity, potentially leading to bottlenecks during peak demand. Companies bear the responsibility for managing, maintaining, securing, and upgrading the PLM system themselves. Implementing new features or updates also requires a considerable lead time.
In contrast, cloud operation relies on an external provider to supply the server infrastructure. The cost structure is typically based on regular licensing fees. Cloud PLM systems are scalable, allowing resources to be flexibly adjusted based on demand. Management, maintenance, security, and system updates are the responsibility of the cloud provider. Compared to the companies using the PLM system, cloud providers possess more comprehensive expertise and state-of-the-art security technologies. New features or updates are implemented faster, given the external management of infrastructure and automatic updates.
3 Factors enable sustainable PLM in the cloud
Efficient resource utilization through cloud technology:
Server capacity, storage space, and network bandwidth can be efficiently managed in Cloud PLM software. The scalable cloud infrastructure allows PLM systems to adapt to specific requirements, such as adding or removing users. Scaling ensures optimal resource utilization while preventing energy waste.
Cloud providers also invest in efficient data centers and employ technologies like virtualization to maximize energy efficiency. This enables multiple virtual systems, operating systems, and applications to run on a single server. Consolidating servers and sharing hardware reduces energy consumption compared to decentralized software deployment. Advanced cooling technologies and intelligent energy management systems contribute to efficient resource utilization in data centers.
Using cloud services also reduces the need for local hardware such as servers, storage devices, and network equipment, resulting in less electronic waste and reduced demand for raw materials for new devices.
Dynamic load distribution in the cloud also contributes to overall efficiency. Traffic management flexibly adjusts to the performance needs of PLM applications to avoid network overloads.
Selection of sustainable cloud providers:
PLM in the cloud is particularly sustainable when chosen cloud providers use renewable energy sources. By leveraging solar power, wind energy, or hydropower, these companies reduce their ecological footprint.
Centralized updates and maintenance:
Cloud PLM providers centrally perform automated software updates and maintenance. This reduces the need for manual interventions at customer sites, which saves time, resources, and travel expenses.
Conclusion
In comparison to the local deployment of PLM software, the cloud enables more efficient resource utilization through flexible scaling, increased energy efficiency, and a reduced carbon footprint. Operating PLM systems in the cloud is more sustainable than on-premises when companies choose a cloud provider that uses renewable energy. Learn more about PLM and sustainability on our website.
CIM Database Cloud can be flexibly scaled up or down and is hosted on Amazon Web Services (AWS), which aims to operate entirely on renewable energy by 2025.
