A step toward more efficient workflows
The digital transformation has revolutionized the engineering world, presenting companies with both new challenges and opportunities. A critical step toward improving efficiency and collaboration is the implementation of a common data model, known as the Common Data Model (CDM). The goal of this model is to increase practical relevance through systematic analysis and optimize collaboration between manufacturers, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
In many companies, the integration of suppliers is organized via email distribution lists. At first glance, this method may seem simple, but it carries numerous problems. Often, the right people are not provided with the correct information, especially when distribution lists are outdated. Moreover, there is a risk of sensitive data falling into the wrong hands. Another issue is the unclear assignment of responsibilities. When it is not clearly defined who is responsible for what tasks, misunderstandings and unnecessary additional work often occur. These inefficient processes lead to significant time and resource losses and represent "waste" (Muda) in Lean Management—steps in the workflow that do not add value.
To minimize this waste, Lean Engineering relies on a systematic approach to eliminating inefficient processes. The Common Data Model plays a central role here, as it forms the basis for a user-centered reduction of waste. Through more efficient information flow, the CDM ensures that all relevant data is available at the right time and in the right place. This leads to more precise synchronization of information and reduces friction losses that can occur when collaborating with different actors in the production process. By giving all stakeholders access to a unified data model, the likelihood of errors and misunderstandings is significantly reduced.
This model not only covers documentation but also supports various digital tools. Special focus is placed on the use of digital twins throughout the plant creation process. This particularly involves rights assignment and control as well as the exchange of information through release requests. To improve security, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is also integrated.
The goal is to identify and eliminate waste in the creation, synchronization, and use of digital twins. This includes developing a concept for identifying and assessing waste, which is applied to the working model.
The goals of the Common Data Model are implemented through a demonstrator, which serves as a practical example. It consists of various software components that interact and integrate into the existing IT infrastructure. The main focus is on the Common Data Model as an interface that enables seamless networking of all systems. One example of successful integration is the management of access and release rights: suppliers can be directly integrated into the workflow without the need for manual communication, such as emails. For example, a supplier can grant approval for a CAD file modification directly in their familiar tool environment—efficiently and without additional communication barriers.
Through workshops and close collaboration with automotive manufacturers and plant builders, the experiences and visions for future working practices with the Common Data Model have been determined. Both the current state and a clear vision for the future have been developed. Key insights from the workshops include:
Definition of data versioning, synchronization, change requests, interim statuses, and the assignment of responsibilities and access rights.
Creation of templates for project planning, milestones, tasks, and documentation, including adjustments during the project.
Integration of tools, establishment of a "Single Source of Truth" system, and documentation of decisions and processes.
Analysis of data waste, utilization of data after engineering for later integrations, and management of special approvals.
Currently, the partners are working on the design of a platform that implements the new working model practically and demonstrates and validates the potential of the CDM. Wireframes are being created to offer a visual representation of the model. These are not trivial and require intensive discussions to adequately consider all aspects of the model. Additionally, various waste elements in the working model are being examined based on processes and Lean Improvement Potential Analyses (LIPOC). The results will be integrated into concrete KPIs and action recommendations.
The greatest challenges lie not so much in the technical implementation but in the design of the working model and the shaping of the workflows. Despite the relatively simple starting point, the platform must offer the necessary complexity to truly plan practical projects and effectively use the Common Data Model.
The vision of an efficient and waste-free engineering process becomes tangible through the Common Data Model and the new working model. The goal is to optimize collaboration between manufacturers, suppliers, and other stakeholders by streamlining processes and synchronizing information. The demonstrator serves as a practical foundation to test the feasibility of these concepts and continuously improve them. This paves the way for more efficient and sustainable production.
Figure 1: Schematic representation of the concept for the new working model
Figure 2: Configuration as part of the concept for the new working model
You can use the form to request access data for the download area.