The problem with many copies
- Part descriptions differ between CAD, PDM, ERP and purchasing lists.
- The "latest" drawing exists in email, a network drive and PDM.
- BOM spreadsheets are copied and edited per project.
- Nobody is sure which revision production is using.
Single source of truth, explained
A single source of truth doesn't mean one system holds everything. It means each piece of data has exactly one owner system, and every other system receives it automatically from there.
| Data | System of record | Consumers |
|---|---|---|
| Geometry, drawings | CAD / PDM | CAM, MES, viewers, suppliers |
| Engineering BOM, revisions | PDM / PLM | ERP, MES, service |
| Costs, stock, suppliers | ERP | CAD (read-only), CRM |
| Customer requirements | CRM | Configurators, CAD automation |
| Standard parts catalogue | Database / PLM | CAD, ERP |
How integration enforces it
- Data is created only in its system of record.
- Integrations push or pull it to every consumer automatically.
- Consumers show it read-only, so it can't drift.
- Changes flow through the owner, with history.
Engineer changes description in CAD / PDM
→ release → ERP updated → purchasing list updated → portal updated
(no one edits the description anywhere else)Master data governance
Technology needs rules: naming conventions, who may create items, how duplicates are prevented and how obsolete parts are retired. Integration makes those rules enforceable.
Benefits
- Fewer errors and less time reconciling data.
- Confidence that everyone works from the current revision.
- Faster audits and certifications.
- A clean base for analytics and AI.
A single source of truth is not a system you buy; it is a result of good integration and clear ownership.
Create your single source of truth
See building an end-to-end digital engineering workflow and our CAD integration services.