Several methodologies for the management of complex engineering data exist within the scope of product design. A short overview of the relevant research disciplines occupied with these methodologies will be presented. The application of graph theory for solving complex problems will be introduced. This theory provides important possibilities of representation and computation in complex networks. Additionally, the multitude of matrix-based approaches is given close consideration, as those approaches to complexity management are widely applied. These matrix-based approaches are classified in four groups that differ in the number of element types involved.