Align with DODI 5000.97: Modernize Your Digital Engineering with Confidence
Digital modernization in defense isn’t optional. It’s mandated. But turning DODI 5000.97 into a working, scalable system is where many organizations struggle.
EAC helps defense contractors implement digital engineering strategies that connect systems, people, and processes using secure, American-built solutions designed for complex, regulated environments.
PTC’s platforms are developed in the United States and integrate seamlessly with Microsoft Azure, supporting secure, scalable digital engineering initiatives.
Know the Steps to Digital Engineering Readiness
Why Digital Modernization Efforts Stall
Many defense organizations understand the importance of digital engineering, but struggle with execution. Common challenges include:
- Disconnected engineering, program, and lifecycle data
- Limited visibility across systems and stakeholders
- Difficulty aligning workflows to DODI 5000.97 requirements
- Legacy systems that cannot support digital thread initiatives
- Fragmented collaboration across contractors, suppliers, and teams
These aren’t isolated issues. They’re systemic gaps between policy and implementation.
From Policy to Practice: What DODI 5000.97 Actually Requires
DODI 5000.97 outlines a clear direction: move toward fully integrated digital engineering environments. In practice, that means:
- Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)
Moving beyond documents to model-driven development - Intelligent Product Lifecycle Enablement
Connecting data across the entire product lifecycle - Lifecycle Data Continuity
Ensuring information flows from concept through sustainment - Cross-Domain Collaboration
Enabling engineering, manufacturing, and operations to work from shared data - Secure, Scalable Infrastructure
Supporting compliance, performance, and growth
The challenge isn’t understanding these requirements. It’s implementing them effectively. If your team is wondering where to start, this guide will help.
How Leading Contractors Are Enabling Digital Engineering
Organizations successfully aligning with DODI 5000.97 are building connected digital ecosystems, not just adopting new tools.
Connect the Digital Thread with PLM
Use Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) to unify requirements, design, manufacturing, and sustainment data.
Enable Model-Based Engineering
Support MBSE with systems that provide traceability, visibility, and control across programs.
Deploy Secure, Scalable Infrastructure
Leverage Microsoft Azure to support compliant, high-performance environments for digital engineering.
Use American-Built Technology
PTC solutions are developed in the United States, supporting security, trust, and alignment with defense priorities.
Built for Defense. Designed for Scale.
Digital engineering is not just about compliance, it’s about capability. With the right foundation, organizations can improve program visibility and decision-making, reduce rework and engineering delays, strengthen compliance and audit readiness, enable collaboration across complex supply chains, and build scalable systems that support future modernization.
Choosing the right platforms matters. PTC’s American-developed solutions, combined with Microsoft Azure infrastructure, provide a secure, scalable path forward for defense contractors navigating digital transformation.
Your Partner in Digital Engineering Transformation
At EAC, we work alongside defense contractors and manufacturers to fix the broken parts of product development by connecting systems, people, and processes. We help organizations translate DODI 5000.97 from policy into practical implementation, leveraging proven platforms like PTC and secure infrastructure like Microsoft Azure.
Our focus isn’t just deploying tools. It’s building systems that enable long-term success in digital engineering. A key part of that partnership is providing practical guidance and resources to help your team evaluate options and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Know the Steps to Digital Engineering Readiness
Frequently asked questions
What is DODI 5000.97?
It is a Department of Defense directive that mandates the adoption of digital engineering practices across programs.
Do we need PLM to comply?
While not explicitly required, PLM is a foundational system for enabling digital thread and lifecycle data continuity.
How does Azure support digital engineering?
Microsoft Azure provides secure, scalable cloud infrastructure that supports compliance and performance requirements for defense programs.
Are PTC solutions aligned with defense requirements?
Yes. PTC solutions are widely used in aerospace and defense and are developed in the United States, supporting secure and compliant implementations.
How long does implementation take?
Timelines vary depending on complexity, but structured approaches significantly reduce risk and accelerate deployment.
Start Turning DODI 5000.97 Into a Working System
Whether you’re early in your digital engineering journey or looking to scale existing efforts, the right approach can make all the difference.
Supporting defense contractors with secure, scalable digital engineering solutions built on trusted, American-developed technology.