Information Systems & Corporate Social Responsibility Investigating the potential and current practices of PLM systems

7 p.International audienceIn a recent Opinion, European Union recognised the increased demand for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Additionally, new European regulations add new environmental requirements to industrial production. Our question is on the role of Information Systems in this process. Will they support the status quo, with mechanistic procedures that will hamper a more socially responsible enterprise strategy, or, on the contrary, they will facilitate the changes? PLM systems are a new step of the evolution of Information Systems of industrial production, trying to cover the whole product lifecycle, from its conception to its recycling (if applicable). We took the opportunity to investigate CSR around these systems. The goal is dual: first, to understand this new technology and the opportunities it offers for socially responsible practices. Second, to compose a guide with advice and suggestions addressed to analysts and managers who strive for a successful implementation of a PLM system, particularly if they want to exploit opportunities for mutual benefit of the company and the society. In this article you will observe our first steps: a research on 14 enterprises in France, that shows discrepancies towards CSR. A high interest towards the environment is not supported by the company information systems, but, regarding responsibility towards the employees, their participation in IS development is deemed satisfactory