A survey-based methodology for prioritising the industrial implementation qualities of design tools

Abstract

The early use of design tools in new product development has a significant impact on competitive business performance. However, their implementation by companies is not always successful. The main aim of this paper is to enhance research methodology for the development of new design tools to aid successful industrial implementation. A survey of existing research associated with the development and implementation of a wide range of design tools is reviewed, and categorised in terms of their ideal attributes, why, how and when they should be implemented, who should be involved, and where they are best positioned in the product development process. Known issues considered as implementation barriers are also presented in terms of practitioner and manager perspectives. Priority implementation issues are further identified from requirements analysis and the implementation history of four specific design tools at different implementation statuses. These qualities are then discussed in the context of enhancing research methodology for design tool development.

Transitioning from technical 2D drawings to 3D models: a case study at defense systems

“…To increase performance related to product quality, reduced cost, and shorter time-to-market, research suggests that companies should focus on and improve the design-related processes positioned early in the development process (Lehto et al, 2011). In general, there is a need for a full implementation of a design tool if it shall contribute in a positive manner (Booker, 2012). However, partial and small-scale implementation provides insight of the concept, and whether one should continue with a big-scale implementation process or not.…”

“…The engineers expressed a need for a larger-scale test to validate and properly understand the method. This statement goes hand in hand with Booker's (2012) claim that a full implementation is necessary to validate the method regarding benefit and value. Further, they mentioned concerns related to the revision management of 3D models.…”

“…Therefore, we see a need for a large-scale study, performed on a whole RWS system, to validate our results. An implementation of a process with this magnitude is complex with shifting elements, and as Booker's (2012) claims, there is a need for a full implementation for proper validation. Factors that do not affect small-scale projects can build momentum and increase regarding influence when transferred into a larger context.…”

Decisions, Science, and Values: Crafting Regulatory Alternatives Analysis

“…The method should not require excessive expenditure of time and resources given the circumstances. (46,55,56)…”

The importance of robust design methodology: case study of the infamous GM ignition switch recall

“…The popularity of quality management practices, such as Total Quality Management (TQM), Six Sigma, or Lean Manufacturing (e. g. Chiarini 2011), reflects the importance that a systematic and purposeful quality strategy has for companies. In addition, there is a wide consensus that a purely production-focused quality strategy, relying exclusively on process control and continuous improvement activities in manufacturing, is not sufficient to keep pace with today's stringent quality requirements for increasingly complex products (Batchelor 2010, Booker 2012). On the contrary, quality has to be systematically designed into products as well as continuously monitored and optimized using design methods and available Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) tools.…”