Oracle announced the end of the road for Agile product lifecycle management (PLM) in October 2023. Version 9.3.7 was quietly removed from Agile’s roadmap, meaning version 9.3.6 marked the conclusion of updates for the software platform. This decision significantly impacts the worldwide Agile user community, which now faces a pivotal decision on which PLM solution is right for their future.
It has been a long time coming, with 9.3.6 originally released on Jan 26, 2017. That’s seven years since the last major update, an eternity for software in an age where security, connected solutions, and new technologies such as AI require multiple updates per year to remain at the forefront of technology.
Now that Agile users know they are on the last version and Oracle product support will cease in December 2027, the urgency for a strategic pivot is clear.
Let's delve into what this means for businesses and explore potential paths forward, focusing on the transition to cloud software as a strong strategic move.
What exactly does the end of life for Agile PLM mean for current users?
Without question, the end of life for Oracle Agile Product Lifecycle Management presents several challenges for current users. Firstly, the lack of future upgrades means missing out on advancements in interconnectivity, a crucial aspect for streamlined communication and integration with other business systems.
Data accuracy and security, paramount in today's digital landscape, will also suffer without continual improvements and patches. This stagnation in development can lead to vulnerabilities and inefficiencies, hindering a company's ability to remain competitive and secure in a rapidly evolving market.
Why is transitioning to a new PLM system necessary?
Transitioning to a new PLM system is crucial, especially for Agile PLM users facing the system's end of life. 20 years ago, the system was cutting edge and lots of businesses placed all their eggs in the Agile basket, so now it’s completely normal to feel apprehensive about making such a big move. However, the risks of not transitioning are dire:
- Technological Stagnation: Missing out on advancements crucial for product development processes. Staying with an outdated PLM system like Agile PLM limits a company's ability to innovate and effectively manage its product development processes.
- Security Risks: Increased vulnerability due to lack of updates to combat new cyber threats.
- Reduced Competitive Edge: Inability to adapt to market changes and stay ahead in a dynamic business environment.
- Integration Challenges: Difficulties in connecting with evolving systems and software.
- User Experience and Productivity: Outdated interfaces leading to inefficiencies.
What makes Propel PLM a preferred choice for Agile PLM users?
In this landscape, Propel PLM software is the clear next step for Agile users, both in terms of familiarity and functionality. In lieu of the Oracle Cloud solution (which doesn’t seem to be a step forward compared to Agile), Propel offers a cloud-based PLM solution that is not just a replacement for the Agile PLM end of life but a leap forward in methodology and technology. This SaaS solution presents a unique opportunity for businesses to not just adapt but excel in product collaboration and project management.
Already, over 20 former Agile PLM customers have switched to Propel. Of those, companies have seen stark results since making the switch, such as:
- 74% faster product commercialization (Savant Systems)
- 50% reduction in document control overhead (Meyer Sound)
- 12-week launch with complete data migration from Agile (Precisional)
- 100% compliance with intensive security regulations via Propel (Hart Intercivic)
Moreover, Propel’s PLM solution is designed to address the limitations of Agile PLM. Propel ensures seamless integration with other business systems, robust support, and a cutting-edge platform built on Salesforce.
It provides end-to-end visibility, a user-friendly interface familiar to Agile users, and enhanced functionality for modern product development needs, such as low-code/no-code composability, and configurations that are forward and backward compatible, removing the need for custom code maintenance.
Finally, and perhaps most pertinently to the topic at hand, in order to remain secure and up to date with the market’s latest needs, Propel releases multiple updates per year as opposed to Agile’s zero in seven years (and ever again).
How does Propel enhance product development processes compared to Agile PLM?
Propel's cloud PLM solution offers real-time collaboration, advanced automation, and customizable workflows. This results in streamlined product development processes, more efficient project management, and improved product quality. Its cloud-native approach ensures seamless information flow across the entire product lifecycle, which is crucial for quick adaptation to market demands.
What support does Propel offer for businesses transitioning from Agile PLM?
Propel provides comprehensive migration support, including resources such as dedicated Professional Services and Customer Success teams and a roadmap for the transition. Based on proven successes from previous businesses that made the switch from Agile, Propel has developed two prescriptive strategies for migrating:
First, if you're ready to completely cut and run from Agile all at once, Propel can help you with a "Lift & Shift" approach, supporting you through a total transformation. Or, if you would prefer a more gradual migration, you could go “Side-by-Side,” maintaining your current Agile system while simultaneously establishing a connection to transfer data to Propel in real time and at your pace.
Both methods are designed to ensure a smooth and efficient transition, minimizing disruption to business processes and ensuring quick adoption by users.
Why is Propel the preferred choice for Agile PLM users?
1. Familiar Yet Advanced User Interface: The transition from Oracle Agile PLM to Propel is seamless, thanks to a user interface that resonates with legacy Agile users. This familiarity, coupled with enhanced workflow automation and API integration, ensures a smooth transition to more efficient product development processes.
2. End-to-End Visibility for Better Decision-Making: Propel offers unparalleled visibility across the supply chain all the way to the customer, enhancing product quality and expediting time to market—a necessity in today's fast-paced environment.
3. Real-Time Collaboration and Integration: Propel is the only PLM solution on the market that offers seamless connection to quality management (QMS) and product information management (PIM) on the same platform. Additionally, Propel integrates effortlessly with other common systems such as CRM and ERP. This unparalleled connection between systems and functions is crucial for businesses seeking streamlined, cost-effective management of their product lifecycles.
4. Continuous Upgrades and Innovation: Unlike Oracle Agile PLM, which halted its roadmap 7 years ago, Propel offers continuous upgrades, ensuring that businesses are always at the forefront of PLM technology. This approach aligns with the methodology of continuous improvement, vital for staying competitive in 2024 and beyond.
5. Advanced Modules and Customization: Propel's cloud PLM solution boasts a range of advanced modules, from quality management to cost control, all designed to streamline the product development process. The flexibility and customization options far surpass what was available in the traditional Agile PLM solution.
6. Seamless Transition and Support: Transitioning to Propel isn’t just a software upgrade; it's a strategic move. Propel ensures a smooth migration, with comprehensive support and resources, including demos, webinars, articles, podcasts, and dedicated support teams.
Conclusion: Embracing the Future with Propel
As the old saying goes, when one door closes, another opens. The end of life for Oracle Agile PLM is not a conclusion but a gateway to new possibilities.
Propel Software offers a strategic, forward-looking solution for businesses ready to embrace the future of PLM. In choosing Propel, businesses are not just keeping pace; they are setting the stage to outperform competitors and thrive in the dynamic landscape of the modern market.
