In this paper we are proposing an ontology based approach to use the information base of PLM systems to support project analysis and management of development processes. At first, we will give a quick overview of generic engineering processes and involved IT-Systems followed by an analysis of common pitfalls and shortcomings. The paper however is focused on presenting meaningful metrics for the evaluation of PLM-data in a project management context based on a semantic integration model. After giving a short oversight of semantic web technologies we will introduce our approach based on these techniques. We use semantic maps to translated technical information supplied by a PLM-system into meaningful key figures to bridge the gap between technical and organizational data. Then we introduce PERMETER, a “semantic radar system” to pierce the thick mist of product complexity using ontologies and metrics. We will conclude with a summary and an outlook on further activities.