Introduction
While many manufacturing organizations seek to modernize away from legacy PDM technologies such as Teamcenter, Aras Innovator presents a flexible, open alternative. However, there are always risks associated with migration. At SteepGraph, we represent a functionality-first, and First-Time-Right (FTR) approach to migration planning, which allows for timely delivery, appropriate quality, and cost optimization.
In this article, we describe our proven functionality-based migration process from Teamcenter to Aras.
Why Functionality-First?
Most groups we work with have a narrow focus on data migration, i.e. data transfer, while underestimating or forgetting how critical process and functional parity is for an appropriate and timely transition of work. We have seen this outcome lead to several organizations misaligned with expectations, a lot of unexpected rework, and cost overruns. Instead, we focus on functional footprint first:
- What does Teamcenter do for you today?
- What of those capabilities do you want to reimplement, enhance, or omit in Aras?
- What is the process parity or improvement opportunity we can accomplish for your organization? And what is the minimum amount of customization that is required?
This minimizes complexity, reduces time-to-delivery, and helps to set you up for scalable opportunities in the future.
Our Migration Strategy (Function-Focused)
- Project Planning
- Identify Stakeholders, confirm success KPIs: (time, quality, cost)
- Freeze functional module scope
- Functional Inventory & Mapping
- Document the Teamcenter modules currently in use.
- Map Teamcenter modules to the corresponding Aras ItemTypes, workflows, and forms
- For every function, categorize them as OOTB / Config / Custom in Aras.
- Fitment & Gap Analysis
- Identify what functionality is missing or processes have been over-engineering.
- Suggest adopting an OOTB-first and leaner alternative approach.
- Module Implementation
- Create the Aras configuration module by module: (e.g. BOM, Change, Workflow, etc.)
- Reuse templates, reusable scripts and design governance checkpoints.
- Validation and FTR reviews
- Conduct peer reviews, early UATs with stakeholder validations.
- Provide structured Gate Reviews to ensure project quality.
Governance for FTR Delivery
Best Practices for Time and Cost Optimization
- OOTB First: Utilize what Aras provides OOTB and configure when needed
- Modular Delivery: Tackle the functionality area-by-area (BOM, Change, Workflow)
- Template-Based System Build: Reusability of Aras configuration and libraries
- Effort Estimating efforts via T-shirt sizing: Classifying modules as S/M/L/XL will provide greater predictability
Risks & Considerations
Prepare Functional Equivalents Tables (A Sample Mapping Table)
Summary
Migrating from Teamcenter to Aras can be a ground-breaking change – if done correctly. Our FTR-based, functionality-driven methodology means you won’t just replicate the old, but will rethink with intent.
Whether you’re a manufacturer with complex BOM and change processes, SteepGraph‘s migration template provides:
- Process capability preserved without unnecessary customization
- Fast, phased implementation through templates
- Cost-effective, future-rate platform adoption
By focusing on functionality-first execution and proven migration governance, manufacturers can reduce risk and accelerate their transition to Aras, while laying the foundation for future scalability
