On a methodology for component selection in modular branding: An industrial pilot study

Abstract

Performing modularization of a product family with multiple brands is a complex task that must integrate and balance a wide range of contradicting and ambiguous aspects, such as product performance, customer expectations, supplier alliances, and corporate business strategies. Furthermore, decisions on balancing these aspects that also change with time have to deal with a high degree of uncertainty. No general methodology for modular branding has currently been published. A methodology with that aim is proposed and prototyped in a real but anonymized industrial case. The presented task is to select standard original equipment manufacturer engines for six brands of self-propelled walk-behind lawn mowers. Selection is based on a set of calculated utility scores and known costs. The utility of an engine with a certain performance level and set of features is specific to each brand. This article presents a first step in developing a general methodology for modular branding and the organizational learnings of using the proposed methodology in an industrial setting.