The decision to use CAE software is like setting a strategic course for a company. Once implemented, it shapes the workflows, processes and even the mindset of the technical team for years to come. With an estimated average commitment period of eight years, the choice between EPLAN and competitor products is not one that should be taken lightly.
Thinking beyond the functional comparison
Many decision-making processes begin with a sober comparison of functions. A checklist of features may seem practical at first glance, but often falls short. The more relevant question is: Which software best supports the specific work processes in your company?
CAE solutions differ fundamentally in their philosophy:
- Database-centered approach vs. drawing orientation
- Industry-specific focus vs. universal solutions
- Modular structures vs. complete solutions
These fundamental orientations often determine the success or failure of an implementation more than individual features.
The hidden decision factors
Beyond function lists and license costs, there are key factors that determine long-term satisfaction with a CAE solution:
Market penetration and compatibility: The most common solution often offers the advantage of easier collaboration with service providers and customers. One industrial equipment supplier reported that by adapting to the CAE system of its main customers, it was able to reduce the project planning effort by 22%.
Availability of specialist staff: Excellent software is of little use if qualified employees are hard to find. The availability of experts on the labor market should therefore be factored into the decision.
Training and support ecosystem: Access to training resources, user communities and professional support can make the difference between a successful and a failing implementation.
The decision matrix: How to find the right solution
Instead of getting lost in isolated product comparisons, develop a weighted decision matrix that reflects your specific requirements:
- Identify your core processes What processes make up 80% of your daily work?
- Evaluate the integration effort Which existing systems need to be connected?
- Consider the future perspective What developments are emerging in your sector?
- Calculate the total costs Include implementation, training and data migration in addition to licenses
- Check the ecosystem Availability of extensions, macro libraries and specialist personnel
Beyond the first impression
One noteworthy aspect is that the supposed strengths or weaknesses of individual systems are often put into perspective in day-to-day use. A medium-sized mechanical engineering company reported that the initial enthusiasm for a feature-rich system quickly evaporated when it became apparent that the daily core processes were more complicated to handle than in the supposedly simpler competitor system.
Perhaps the most important tip: test the shortlisted systems with your actual projects, not with abstract demo scenarios. Time spent on realistic tests is time well spent, measured in terms of years of use.
The decision between EPLAN and competitor solutions remains an individual one that should be tailored to the specific requirements of your company. With a structured approach that goes beyond superficial functional comparisons, you will make an informed choice that will optimally support your electrical planning for years to come.
