The buzz: ‘The digital thread refers to the communication framework that allows a connected data flow and integrated view of an asset’s data throughout its lifecycle across traditionally siloed functional perspectives. The concept raises the bar for delivering “the right information to the right place at the right time’ …spearheaded by the military aircraft industry, it is converging with the goals of Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing.” ibaset.com In this digital age, information is the key to innovation. Creating a digital thread across a product’s life cycle captures real-time, accurate information from the customer, the purchasing team, the maintenance team and the engineering team. That data can be used to identify design improvements, create new features and lead to innovations. We’ll ask CIMdata’s Stan Przybylinski, Siemen’s Joe Bohman and SAP’s Keith Zobott for their take on Intelligent Products and Assets: Creating a Digital Thread from Design to Decommission.