Product lifecycle management (PLM) is a concept for the seamless management of the product lifecycle Integration of all information that accumulates during the life cycle of a product. The concept is based on coordinated methods, processes and organisational structures and typically uses IT systems for recording and managing the data. PLM creates improved control for companies over the diverse processes required in each part of a life cycle, and thus transparent efforts and returns. The systems affected by the concept thus include construction (CAD) and calculation (CAE) via production planning (system and technology) and production planning/control to sales planning, sales, distribution logistics, end-of-life management, including service and recycling issues.