PDXpert PLM 2008 Edition Introduces XML Data Export Options

PDXpert 2008 implements the open PLMX™ (Product Lifecycle Management eXchange) file format for data export, which is optimized for exporting part data and bills of materials to downstream ERP systems. A PLMX data file combines XML-based product properties with related CAD and other product data files which are compressed (“zipped”) into a simple and flexible package that can be exchanged with supply chain partners.

Using the built-in support for XML transformation (“XSLT”) documents, PDXpert 2008 can now export ERP-compatible files directly from the PLM system without intermediate software translators. PLMX data can also be transformed into other commonly-used file formats such as Microsoft® Office Excel® XLS and CSV text. Customized reports can be added to PDXpert 2008 by combining PLMX data with XML-based Report Definition Language Client-side (RDLC) directives. ASI can meet customers’ ERP import and reporting requirements through a new service to create specialized XSLTs and RDLCs.

The new PDXpert 2008 software also improves its already easy to use Google™-like search algorithm by indexing a richer set of part, document and change attributes. Overall application performance has been improved with faster item loading and a streamlined object data model. New features simplify application management through an improved “hands-off” self-installation; server-side workflow email settings; software updates using client-side auto-detection, download and installation; and Microsoft Vista™ compatibility.

ASI’s product website, BuyPLM.com, continues to offer a simple alternative to the typical PLM software experience. BuyPLM.com provides immediate access to product literature; free, fully-functional evaluation software via download; helpful user guides and on-line training videos; attractive no-haggle pricing; and flexible perpetual- and subscription-based licensing alternatives. Questions are answered by a friendly, knowledgeable support team.