The PLM systems do not provide any link to actual performance indicators, related to cost, time, and quality parameters. This paper describes a collaboration platform, based on a semantic core that expresses knowledge about Products, Processes and Resources. The platform is internet based, connecting engineers in the extended enterprise with shopfloor personnel. The concept is based both on a series of distinct components and elements comprising the knowledge base, and on a set of software agents. The latter are interfaced with a set of Computer Aided (CAx) systems and provide decision support capabilities for the design of a production line.