IBM and Dassault Systemes today announced that Airbus has selected ENOVIA VPLM, their 3D collaborative Virtual Product Lifecycle Management solution, combined with CATIA, to standardize product development processes. Airbus is extending its ENOVIA VPLM user base to several thousand users, emphasizing the company's commitment to IBM and DS' PLM solutions.

The ENOVIA VPLM solution has demonstrated its capabilities as an integrated part of the Airbus Enterprise Data Management system, enabling Airbus to perform digital mock-up reviews and clash detection earlier in the process. Due to the demonstrated benefits, Airbus has decided to expand the usage of ENOVIA VPLM to all programs. The CATIA and ENOVIA VPLM combination is becoming the standard environment for all new programs at Airbus.

"Increased collaboration and the ability to capitalize on past projects are critical to clients' ability to drive a profitable innovation strategy. This is especially true in complex aircraft projects," says Herve Rolland, vice-president, Product Lifecycle Management, IBM Southwest Europe. "Using our PLM solutions, Airbus will be able to better address clients' specific needs, while reducing costs and product development time."

"This decision by Airbus reflects the strength of our partnership and our commitment to the company's future development," says Etienne Droit, executive vice-president PLM Sales and Distribution, Dassault Systemes. "The Airbus teams on each program will access a standardized configured Digital Mock-Up, and capitalize on the developments of previous and current projects. This will facilitate design and knowledge re-use, enabling innovation and accelerated product development."