Digital Product Thread Readiness

Assessment and Implementation Guide

Introduction

The digital product thread assessment tool helps product companies evaluate their readiness to integrate enterprise systems (PLM, ERP, MES, QMS, design tools). By scoring each factor, organizations can determine their integration readiness, identify areas needing attention, and prioritize which systems to connect first. This guide then assists with interpreting readiness scores and making plans based on where your team is to ensure the most likely success in achieving your digital product thread goals.

Note: This guidance assumes that most systems use modern REST APIs and low-code / no-code cloud connection methods. If legacy systems with other methods are included, this may increase the investment and time needed to create connections and maintain them.

Readiness Levels:

88-110: High Readiness

  • Ready for comprehensive enterprise system connections via low-code / no-code cloud methods
  • Can pursue ambitious integration projects across multiple systems
  • Should develop a detailed integration roadmap with phased implementation
  • Focus on business process optimization rather than technical implementation

65-87: Moderate Readiness

  • Ready for selective system connections
  • Start with highest-value integrations between 2-3 core systems
  • Address specific process gaps before expanding
  • Develop a center of excellence for ongoing integration governance

44-64: Developing Readiness

  • Begin with limited pilot connection projects
  • Focus on process standardization and data quality improvements
  • Consider pre-built connectors and templates from software vendors
  • Start with simpler workflows before tackling complex integrations

Below 44: Early Preparation Stage

  • Not yet ready for significant connection initiatives
  • Focus on foundational process documentation and standardization
  • Improve data quality and governance
  • Build executive support and develop the business case
  • Consider starting with simple data synchronization between key systems