July 12, 2011 -- Active Sensing announced PDXpert Release 6.6 product lifecycle management software, with enhanced capabilities for importing, updating and exporting PLM data. Administrators can now import part and document records from legacy data sources such as Excel spreadsheets and MRP databases directly into PDXpert PLM software. Import rules can substitute default values for missing data or create new objects "on the fly." The import facility, which also offers mass item updates, reduces the need for costly professional services that are often a barrier to adopting PLM software.
Bulk item imports complement PDXpert software's existing BOM import facility that’s optimized for interfacing with CAD applications. After the data's been captured, PDXpert 6.6 provides a new ODBC view of item data and user-defined custom attributes. Custom attributes within the PLM system offer a unified view of items for both CAD applications (for example, schematic symbol names) and MRP systems (requiring, say, part number release status).