The Power of Built-in Data Management

Shannon McGarry July 14, 2025

4 min read

Built-in data management in Autodesk Fusion streamlines design and manufacturing processes by reducing redundant efforts, enhancing collaboration, and improving efficiency overall for teams.

In design and manufacturing, efficiency and accuracy are key. When an organization relies on a number of disconnected tools and processes to store and share data it can be error-prone and cumbersome. Built-in data management solutions offer a streamlined approach that enhances productivity and reduces the risk of costly mistakes.

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The challenges of poor data management methods

Poor data management methods in design and manufacturing typically involve a combination of manual processes, disparate tools, and fragmented workflows. These approaches come with a number of challenges, including:

  1. Human error: Manual data entry and management are prone to mistakes. This leads to inconsistencies, lost data, and costly errors.
  2. Tool incompatibility: Using multiple tools that do not communicate with each other can create silos of information. This makes it difficult to maintain a cohesive data management strategy.
  3. Time consumption: Managing data manually or through separate tools can be time-consuming, detracting from the time available for actual design and manufacturing tasks.
  4. Lack of version control: Without an integrated system, keeping track of different versions of design files can be challenging, leading to confusion and potential rework.

The advantages of built-in data management

Built-in PDM solutions address these challenges by providing a cohesive, integrated approach to data management. Automation significantly reduces the risk of human error. Data remains accurate, consistent, and accessible from a central source for teams across the organization. Built-in data management tools are designed to work together seamlessly, eliminating the need for additional tools that may not communicate with each other. This seamless integration leads to streamlined workflows and automated processes that save time. Designers and manufacturers can focus more on their core tasks rather than on data management. Integrated systems also enhance collaboration by giving team members real-time access to the latest versions of design files and data. Furthermore, built-in PDM solutions offer comprehensive change management capabilities, making it easy to track changes and maintain a clear history of design iterations.

The built-in data management capabilities in Autodesk Fusion

The PDM capabilities in Fusion show how built-in data management can transform the design and manufacturing process. Fusion seamlessly integrates CAD, CAM, CAE, PCB, and PDM in the cloud to address common challenges associated with poor data management methods.

“The purpose of my team is to skip over all the processes that slow down a traditional car company. We want to be able to iterate as fast as possible. We want to get parts in engineers, designers, and operators’ hands so that we can make our cars quickly and to quality, too. Using Fusion has allowed us to do all of that.”

– Jonathan Dankenbring, Product Development Engineering Manager, Rivian

Centralized data repository

Fusion provides a centralized repository for all design and manufacturing data, making it easily accessible and organized. This eliminates the need for scattered data storage solutions and reduces the likelihood of lost files.

Automated workflows

The PDM capabilities in Fusion include automated workflows that streamline data management processes. From file creation to version control, Fusion automates many of the tasks that would traditionally require manual intervention. This reduces the risk of errors and saves valuable time.

Enhanced collaboration

Fusion boosts collaboration by allowing team members to access and share data in real-time. Everyone can work with the most up-to-date information, leading to better communication and a lower chance of miscommunication.

Robust change management

Fusion offers change management features that make it easy to track changes and maintain a clear history of design iterations. This is particularly important in design and manufacturing, where even minor changes can have significant implications.

Accessibility and security

Data in Fusion is not only accessible but also secure. With built-in PDM, users can control access permissions, ensuring that sensitive information is protected while still available to stakeholders who need it.

As the industry evolves, the importance of integrated data management will increase. Adopting solutions like Autodesk Fusion is essential for a more efficient, accurate, and collaborative future in design and manufacturing.

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