Despite push for modernization, only 43% report regularly using digital collaboration tools

Aras, a leader in product lifecycle management (PLM) and digital thread solutions, today announced the latest results from its recent research report, The Future of PLM and Digital Engineering, which highlights how the continued reliance on manual collaboration methods is undermining the success and efficiency of global supply chains.

According to the survey, 79% of organizations exchange product design or engineering information with suppliers, and 83% share compliance and sustainability data. However, the report finds that nearly half of these organizations still use outdated tools and methods to share sensitive data with suppliers. 52% of respondents use email and file-sharing services, while 49% depend on in-person meetings to exchange critical data. Only 43 percent report regularly using digital collaboration platforms.

“Companies understand the importance of integrating suppliers into their digital processes, but outdated methods continue to hinder speed, visibility, and control,” said Roque Martin, CEO of Aras. “To keep up with today’s pace of innovation, businesses need a platform that enables secure, real-time collaboration with suppliers and eliminates the manual handoffs that cause delays, errors, and lost opportunities.”

Digital Collaboration Fuels Competitive Advantage

Nine out of ten respondents acknowledge that supply chain integration is essential to their PLM and digital thread strategies. Companies that break down silos and share knowledge in real time can respond to crises faster and meet customer demands. Early and secure data sharing with suppliers helps drive alignment and product innovation from the start.

However, this tight integration isn’t without risk. Many companies struggle to coordinate across incompatible IT systems, manage cultural differences, and maintain data privacy. As supply chains grow more complex and globally distributed, concerns around cybersecurity and information control continue to rise.

PLM Solutions Close the Gap

A modern PLM solution can help organizations overcome these barriers by centralizing product data and providing secure access across the supplier network. When a disruption occurs or a partner changes, PLM ensures continuity because critical data isn’t buried in someone’s inbox. It’s structured, traceable, and available when needed.

The costs of supply chain miscommunication are real: missed deadlines, delayed production, and lost revenue. PLM transforms collaboration by eliminating manual coordination, reducing human error, and improving visibility across the entire product lifecycle. The result is greater resilience, transparency, and trust across every tier of the supply network.

About the 2025 Global Industry Survey

“The Future of Product Lifecycle Management and Digital Engineering” is a January 2025 survey based on insights from 656 executives in Europe, the US, and Japan. It examines how leading automotive, aerospace, and machinery manufacturers (revenues >$40M) are addressing AI adoption, digital thread integration, and regulatory compliance. Download the full report here.

About Aras

Aras is a leading provider of product lifecycle management and digital thread solutions. Its technology enables the rapid delivery of flexible solutions built on a powerful digital thread backbone and a low-code development platform. Aras’ platform and product lifecycle management applications connect users in all disciplines and functions to critical product data and processes across the lifecycle and throughout the extended supply chain. Visit www.aras.com to learn more and follow us on YouTube, X, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Copyright © 2025 by Aras Corporation and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved. Aras and Aras Innovator are registered trademarks of Aras Corporation in the United States and other countries. Third party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

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The report finds that nearly half of organizations still use outdated tools and methods to share sensitive data with suppliers. 52% of respondents use email and file-sharing services, while 49% depend on in-person meetings to exchange critical data.