What is the digital thread ?

Understanding the strengths of the digital thread

03/03/2025

In a world where data is ubiquitous and digital transformation is accelerating, industry faces a challenge: how to effectively connect the various links in its processes to gain in performance ? The answer lies in the digital thread, a key concept of Industry 4.0 that is overturning traditional approaches.

In this article, we take a look at the digital chain: its definition, its strategic role, and its impact on companies that choose to adopt it.

A simplified definition of the digital thread

The digital chain can be seen as an invisible but essential line that connects the systems used in a company throughout all the stages of a product's lifecycle, from conception to market launch. Unlike fragmented process management, it is based on the seamless integration of technologies and data.

This means that each phase - design, simulation, production, maintenance - is connected by interoperable digital systems. For example:

Models created in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software can be automatically used in CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) without duplication or loss of data.
Production information is accessible in real time to maintenance teams.

This digital continuity guarantees seamless communication between teams, reducing errors and increasing speed of execution !

Why is the digital thread so important?

Adopting the digital thread isn't just about integrating new technological tools. It's about transforming the way a company designs, manufactures and manages its products. Here are the main benefits:

Reduction of information silos : all data circulates in a common ecosystem, promoting better decision-making.

Optimized lead times: the digital chain facilitates automation and enables more efficient process management, considerably reducing production cycles.

Enhanced collaboration: design and production teams have access to the same information in real time.

Accelerated innovation: by enabling rapid, precise iterations, the digital chain stimulates team creativity.

The digital thread: much more than a technical concept

The digital thread is more than just a suite of software or connected machines. It represents a philosophy of integration in which every piece of data can be considered a strategic resource. For example, data from simulation (CAE) can now be taken into account and exploited earlier in the design cycle, known as Simulation-Driven Design. As a result, the design cycle will be more influenced by the constraints arising from simulation results, and time will be saved in the development process!

This digital continuity approach is therefore particularly relevant in an industrial environment where margins are tightening and rapid adaptation to market fluctuations is essential.