#98: Digital Product Series – Who is CONTACT Software

In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we kick off our Digital Product Series with a deep dive into CONTACT Software—a company that has been shaping the digital engineering space for over 30 years but remains relatively unknown in North America.Our guest, Dimitri Baumtrok, Head of International Sales at CONTACT Software, joins Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott to share the company’s story, its global expansion, and its unique definition of digital engineering.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:What is “Top Floor to Shop Floor”? How CONTACT Software connects innovation at the design stage with execution in manufacturing and beyond.Who They Serve: Why mid-sized and upper mid-sized companies are their sweet spot, and how industries from automotive to industrial machinery—and even fashion—benefit from their platform.The Secret’s Out: How a “best-kept secret” in Europe is expanding globally through partnerships, OEM collaborations, and customer-driven innovation.Company Culture & History: From its founding in the 1990s to today’s family-owned, privately held structure focused on “energizing great minds.”The Future of Digital Engineering: CONTACT’s vision for AI-driven product lifecycle management, mobile-first solutions, and international growth.Dimitri also shares how CONTACT works closely with customers to co-develop solutions, ensuring their platform evolves alongside real-world needs.If you’ve been curious about lesser-known players in the digital engineering space—or want to understand how CONTACT Elements stacks up against big-name PLM and MES providers—this is a must-listen.🎧 Tune in to discover why CONTACT Software might just be digital engineering’s best-kept secret.Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

In this forward-looking episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with PLM authority Michael “Fino” Finocchiaro to unpack how AI, emerging startups, and evolving technologies are transforming the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) landscape. From industry giants like Dassault Systèmes, Siemens, and PTC to disruptive newcomers, the conversation covers current innovations, potential disruptors, and bold predictions—touching on everything from digital threads and agentic AI to quantum computing’s role in engineering.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How AI is reshaping PLM across major platforms like Dassault, Siemens, and PTCThe rise of agent-based AI orchestration and cross-platform integrationThe role of startups—like Propel, Duro, and Aras—in pushing PLM forwardWhy quantum computing and advanced manufacturing could redefine the industry’s capabilitiesEmerging technologies beyond AI that could impact the future of PLMInsights into evolving business models and economic considerations for PLM adoptionIf this episode was helpful, follow Razorleaf’s Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, share it with your PLM team, and rate/review in your podcast app.Tell us what you’re testing next: agents, RAG search, or cloud PDM? Drop a comment and we may feature your question in a future episode.Want more like this? Subscribe and get new episodes the moment they drop.Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

In Part 2 of our conversation with MBSE expert David Long, we dive deeper into the evolution of model-based systems engineering, tracing its roots, tool development, and growing relevance across industries. You’ll hear how MBSE emerged as a way to improve communication between disciplines, especially between systems and software engineers, and why it's becoming an indispensable part of modern engineering practices.We explore:The historical context and drivers behind MBSEThe critical role of SysML v2 and why its release is a game-changerHow MBSE enables cross-domain collaboration and digital thread continuityKey software tools and vendors shaping the MBSE ecosystemThe convergence of PLM and MBSE in the age of digital transformationWhat MBSE has in common with the evolution from drafting to CADWhether you're a seasoned systems engineer or just learning about digital engineering, this episode offers an insightful look into the tools, standards, and thought leaders shaping the future.🛠️ MBSE Tools & Platforms:Cameo Systems Modeler by Dassault Systèmes (formerly MagicDraw)Enterprise Architect by Sparx SystemsCapella by ThalesGENESYS by VitechInnoslate by SPEC InnovationsMBSE tools from Ansys and MathWorks📚 Thought Leaders & Trainers:Sanford Friedenthal (SysML / MBSE thought leader)Ed Seidewitz (UML & SysML standards contributor)Lenny Delligatti – Author of SysML DistilledTim Weilkiens – MBSE Trainer and Consultant🧪 Standards Bodies:INCOSE (International Council on Systems Engineering)OMG (Object Management Group) – Developers of UML, SysML, UAF🔗 Learn More About SysML v2:SysML v2 Initiative at OMGSysML v2 Release Updates & Resources📩 Contact & Subscribe:Have questions for David or our hosts? Leave a comment or email us at [email protected].👉 Be sure to subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering on your favorite podcast platform or watch full episodes on YouTube.🔗 YouTube: Razorleaf YouTube ChannelMusic is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Fernando Valera, Chief Technology Officer at Visure Solutions, to tackle one of the most complex challenges in modern product development: aligning hardware and software lifecycles through integrated requirements engineering.With decades of experience in requirements management, Fernando offers deep insight into how PLM (Product Lifecycle Management), ALM (Application Lifecycle Management), and MBSE (Model-Based Systems Engineering) can come together to create smarter, faster, and safer product development cycles. The conversation also explores how AI is transforming requirements processes and what the future holds for digital engineering.🔍 Topics Covered:What PLM and ALM really mean—and where requirements engineering fits inThe cultural divide between hardware and software teams—and how to bridge itHow systems engineering and MBSE provide a common language across domainsThe role of digital twins in syncing product cadencesHow AI is already improving requirements validation, traceability, and complianceWhy system engineers are key players in modern product integrationWhat organizations must consider when blending ALM and PLM in real-world use🧠 Key Quotes:“AI can now do 80% of what a requirements engineer does—but it’s the boring 80%.” “Digital twins are speeding up hardware development the same way DevOps transformed software.” “MBSE isn’t just about models. It’s about giving people better ways to see and simulate complexity.”👤 Guest Bio:Fernando Valera is a Certified Professional in Requirements Engineering and CTO at Visure Solutions. With over 20 years of experience helping organizations streamline complex product delivery, Fernando brings a global perspective and deep technical expertise to digital transformation initiatives in safety-critical industries.📩 Got Questions? Drop us a comment on our LinkedIn post or email us at [email protected].✅ Don’t forget to like and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform or watch the full episode on YouTube.🎧 Stay sharp, and see you in the next episode!Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott welcome back Steve Nichols, head of the Public Sector and Defense Group at Razorleaf. Together, they unpack the foundational steps government agencies need to take to successfully implement digital engineering (DE) practices—whether you're in the Department of Defense, NASA, Homeland Security, or any other federal agency managing complex systems.Steve outlines six key components for digital engineering success:Integrated Tools and Data InteroperabilityCollaborative Digital EnvironmentsAuthoritative Sources of Truth (ASOTs)Digital Thread Planning and MaintenanceWorkforce Readiness and Culture ChangeGovernance and Policy AlignmentThe conversation dives into practical approaches for getting started, even if you're not at the beginning of an acquisition cycle. From digitizing artifacts and improving basic workflows to developing a “digital first” mindset, Steve explains why success starts with clear strategy, small wins, and a vision for long-term sustainability.💡 Key takeaways: – Don’t try to “boil the ocean”—start small and build momentum – Digital transformation requires cultural and organizational shifts, not just new tools – Programs should consider lifecycle interoperability and future workforce expectations from day one – External guidance and internal advocacy are both critical for success📍 Whether you’re supporting legacy programs or launching new initiatives, this episode offers a clear roadmap for navigating digital engineering in government.👉 Got questions or want to join the conversation? Drop us a comment or email us at [email protected]. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and stay sharp!Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott are joined by David Ewing, Director of Mission Integration at SAIC and architect of the award-winning Ready One digital engineering platform. Together, they tackle the myths and misconceptions surrounding digital twins.They explore the difference between digital models and true digital twins, the importance of having a physical counterpart, and why configuration management is crucial for maintaining a digital thread. Dave emphasizes that a digital twin isn’t just a model—it’s a living representation that evolves alongside its physical asset, incorporating real-time data and changes over time.The conversation also covers:The nuances between terms like digital twin, digital shadow, surrogate, and virtual twinWhy CAD models alone don’t qualify as digital twinsHow deviations in manufacturing and maintenance create one-of-a-kind digital twin instancesWhy robust configuration management and a traceable digital thread are essentialReal-world applications in aerospace and defense, including mission-specific modeling and sensor feedbackThe growing role of AI in connecting systems, automating documentation, writing test cases, and refining models—and why human oversight is still essentialDavid also shares a few laughs with the hosts, poking fun at the overuse of buzzwords and “digital trophies,” and stressing the importance of context, scalability, and ethics in digital engineering.Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of what a digital twin is (and isn’t), where AI fits in, and how to start building toward a truly connected, model-based future.If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to like this episode and subscribe to Stay Sharp on your favorite podcast platform or on YouTube. Got questions or feedback for the hosts? Drop a comment or email us at [email protected] next time—stay sharp.Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

In this foundational episode, we kick off a two-part conversation with renowned MBSE thought leader David Long, former president of INCOSE and long-time advocate for model-based systems engineering. Hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott explore the role MBSE plays in enabling Digital Twins, especially in early lifecycle phases, and clarify how MBSE supports—not replaces—high-fidelity simulation and engineering tools.We cover:What MBSE is and isn’t (hint: it’s not its own silo)Where MBSE fits into the Digital Twin journeyHow MBSE supports architecture across the product, factory, and enterpriseThe importance of first-order (0D/1D) models in early systems thinkingMBSE’s relationship to simulation, sustainability, and organizational designWhy the middle management layer is the key to successful adoptionDavid also introduces the idea of MBSE acting as the “connective tissue” that unifies disciplines—not a high-fidelity replacement tool, but a crucial framework for clarity, collaboration, and continuous evolution.🧰 Resources & Links Mentioned:📘 MBSE & Digital Twin Concepts:MBSE Primer (co-authored by David Long)INCOSE – International Council on Systems EngineeringDigital Twin Types: Surrogate, Shadow, and Full TwinConway’s Law – How Organizational Structure Impacts System Design🧠 Simulation, Modeling & Architecture:Functional Mock-up Interface (FMI)Virtual Twin vs. Digital Twin (Dassault Systèmes)📩 Contact & Subscribe:🎧 Subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering on your favorite podcast platform ▶️ Watch full episodes on Razorleaf’s YouTube Channel 📬 Got questions for David Long? Send us an email at [email protected] is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

How do simulations truly integrate into the world of digital twins—and what role do surrogate models and AI play in driving smarter design?In this episode, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott continue the Digital Twin Series with a deep dive into simulation, featuring guest expert Shawn Freeman from Vias3D. With over 30 years of experience in CAE and simulation-driven product development, Shawn helps demystify how traditional CAE, surrogate modeling, and emerging technologies like AI are transforming how we design, manufacture, and operate products.🔍 Topics covered:Why traditional simulations alone aren’t enough for real-time digital twinsHow surrogate modeling helps speed up decision-makingThe four key components of simulation: inputs, outputs, model, and solverHow simulation results are stored, trusted, and integrated into PLM systemsOperational use cases, from vehicle design to in-flight aircraft assessmentsThe rising impact of AI in generating richer, faster simulation models🎧 Whether you're designing consumer products or managing aircraft performance, this episode gives you a comprehensive look at how simulation fits into the digital twin ecosystem.👉 Got questions or comments? Email us at [email protected] or comment on our latest post. Until next time—stay sharp.Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

In this episode, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott are joined by Patrick Harrigan, VP of Partnerships at Caddi, to explore the transformative role of AI in unlocking the potential of unstructured data in manufacturing.While most conversations in digital engineering focus on structured data—PLM, ERP, and CAD—this episode dives deep into the massive (and often untapped) world of unstructured data: paper documents, legacy drawings, tribal knowledge, and more.💡 Topics Covered:What unstructured data actually means in a manufacturing contextWhy up to 80% of valuable data remains unused—and how AI is changing thatThe difference between systems of record and systems of insightHow AI is accelerating the conversion of historical documents and tribal knowledge into searchable, useful intelligenceReal-world applications for AI-powered insights—from reducing engineering inefficiencies to improving quality controlWhat makes manufacturing data uniquely challenging for general AI tools—and how purpose-built platforms are adaptingThe future of connected insights across structured and unstructured data domainsWhy “agentic AI” and human-in-the-loop workflows matter now more than ever🔧 Key Insight:AI isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a powerful tool for surfacing decades of buried knowledge and connecting data silos across the digital thread. Whether it’s improving design reuse, surfacing legacy quality fixes, or simply saving engineers from being “librarians,” the potential is vast.🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube. 📩 Questions or feedback? Email us at [email protected] Sharp—and stay curious.Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.

In this special 25th anniversary episode, we’re taking a trip down memory lane with Razorleaf’s CEO and co-founder, Eric Doubell. Hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Eric to reflect on the pivotal moments, lessons learned, and guiding values that shaped Razorleaf’s journey from a scrappy startup to a global digital engineering leader.💡 In this episode, we cover:The founding story of Razorleaf — how an unexpected turn led to its creationBehind-the-scenes tales, including the surprising role 9/11 played in team formationLessons learned from growing a business with heart, integrity, and adaptabilityWhy being “people first” has driven Razorleaf’s culture and long-term succesThe evolution of the digital engineering landscape — and how Razorleaf has stayed aheadHow global growth has challenged and enriched the company’s perspectiveThe “hard things” Razorleaf chooses to take on — and why that matters for innovationWhat’s next for Razorleaf in an age of AI, cloud PLM, and multi-tenant systems🔥 Whether you’re an entrepreneur, PLM expert, digital engineering leader, or longtime Razorleaf partner, this episode offers insight into building a resilient, values-driven company in a rapidly changing tech world.📩 Have a question for Eric or the team? Email us at: [email protected] 👍 Like this episode? Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite platform, and follow Razorleaf on social media.🔗 Learn more at razorleaf.comMusic is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.© 2024 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.