Each company can define the specific part types they need, with customizable metadata tailored to each type. For instance, electrical parts can have electrical parameters, while mechanical parts may include material properties. Some parameters can be set as mandatory to ensure that essential data is always recorded and approved. Each part can also store documents, drawings, and other relevant files, either directly or through references to other documents.

The system also supports managing standard components, including datasheets, technical parameters, and procurement, manufacturer, and supplier information.

The module facilitates creating and maintaining product structures by linking parent parts to child parts. It prevents circular references, and references can either be locked to a specific version or dynamically point to the latest approved version.

Each product structure can include various types of data such as product sheets, specifications, designs, drawings, assembly instructions, test specifications, and manuals. Altogether, the product structure houses all essential information about the product.

Highstage enforces a bottom-up approval process, ensuring no part is approved until all related child parts and documents are reviewed and approved. This structured approach not only enhances knowledge sharing but also improves transparency throughout the development process, especially across different product disciplines.

The module offers advanced export capabilities, making it easy to generate BOMs and documentation packages for external partners, such as suppliers. These packages can be exported from any level of the product hierarchy and in multiple formats.

Highstage’s built-in mail journaling system can be used to send these document packages directly to suppliers, or suppliers can access the platform to download them.

Highstage supports variant management, allowing you to reuse base designs across multiple product variants. The system’s strong referencing features ensure product stability despite variations. Once the core product is approved as a base part, it can be used in any number of products, with the option to add new components, such as localization kits or color variations.

Highstage brings together all disciplines into a single product model, providing project managers with a comprehensive overview of status and progress. This ensures seamless integration between teams and supports a common, structured product release.

Highstage Parts can store multiple files of any type, with sub-documents often used for organization. This flexibility allows teams to use their preferred software without restrictions, encouraging collaboration with any external tools or programs.