Dr John Stark, a recognised PLM expert, started working in product development in 1979. In the 1980s, he worked in computer-aided design, product data management and business process improvement. He has worked as a consultant to companies in the product development and support area since the mid-1980s; first for Coopers & Lybrand, then as an independent consultant after setting up his own business in 1991. Over the last 30 years, he has helped over 100 companies implement PLM. He has written numerous highly successful books on PLM. He’s also developed and delivered PLM courses for executives, people working in the product lifecycle, PLM professionals and university students.