#48: Managing the Product Life Cycle Beyond PLM

In this episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, hosts Jen and Jonathan are joined by special guest Patrick Hillberg to dive deeper into managing a product's life cycle beyond traditional Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems. Building on a previous discussion, the conversation explores the gaps in PLM technology and the broader challenges of product management in today's complex, global economy.Patrick Hillberg, a seasoned expert in PLM digitalization, manufacturing, and workforce development for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, shares his insights on why managing the product life cycle requires more than just PLM technology. The discussion touches on critical topics such as supply chain disruptions, the importance of digital twins for factories, and the need to reimagine product development strategies in the face of systemic risks like climate change and pandemics.Key Discussion Points:PLM Technology vs. Product Lifecycle Management: The distinction between PLM as a business process and the technology that supports it, and why current PLM systems fall short in addressing all aspects of product management.Supply Chain Challenges: How supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by events like the COVID-19 pandemic, reveal the limitations of existing PLM tools in managing product life cycles effectively.The Role of Externalities: Exploring the impact of external factors—both positive and negative—on product development and lifecycle management, including the implications of climate change and geopolitical conflicts.The Future of Manufacturing: The potential of digital twins and remote manufacturing to address global challenges, and the vision for more localized production to reduce risks associated with complex global supply chains.Innovation and Simplicity: The importance of finding less complex, more efficient methods to achieve business goals, including the role of additive manufacturing and the need to rethink traditional approaches to product development.Guest Bio:Patrick Hillberg is a speaker, author, and professor with decades of experience in designing, developing, and leading teams in PLM digitalization and advanced manufacturing. He is passionate about preparing the workforce for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and advocates for rethinking product lifecycle management in light of modern challenges.  https://www.patrickhillberg.com/ Call to Action:We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Join the conversation by leaving a comment or sending an email to [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe to Stay Sharp with Razorleaf on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube channel for more insightful discussions.Connect with Us:Website: RazorleafEmail: [email protected]: Razorleaf ChannelStay Sharp!Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.© 2026 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.