product data management (PDM):
"An expanded view of product definition functions that include a bill of material and routing database, current and historical engineering data and specifications and engineering change order history. (product data management (PDM) , A system, which controls all product-related data and associated workflow processes within an enterprise. Product data management systems replace paper-based processes and information storage with a single, centralized data repository that enables authorized users throughout a company to access and update current product information, while ensuring they follow specific procedures. PDM vendors recently have emphasized the similarities between PDM and groupware technology appropriate to a range of business environments. Besides ensuring data integrity using relational database technology, both include workflow and web-based applications that ease collaboration efforts.)"
