Sustainable smart product-service systems: a causal logic framework for impact design

Abstract

Digital technologies can elevate product-service systems (PSS) to smart PSS, which focus on performance rather than ownership and are considered a means for dematerialization. However, transitioning to smart PSS does not guarantee sustainability. To understand the impact of smart PSS holistically, we take a two-pronged approach. First, we use the theory of change to conceptualize the causal link between sustainable smart PSS and their ultimate impact. We develop a three-step causal logic framework consisting of design, causation, and impact. Within this framework, we identify the business model properties of sustainable smart PSS as design characteristics and categorize the eventual impacts based on the triple bottom line. We introduce the term multi-causal pathway to describe the causation processes underlining the possibility of non-linearity and multi-causality. Second, we conduct a systematic literature review to investigate the mechanisms linking design and impact. Based on an analysis of 63 publications, we identify 17 specific mechanisms and group them into four types: information, resource, empowerment, and adverse mechanisms. Visualizing our results, we develop a morphological box as a toolkit for managers to develop their own impact-oriented logic model by identifying and activating the multi-causal pathway that fosters the desired sustainability effects. Moreover, discussing our framework, we develop research propositions and managerial questions for impact design. By linking the theory of change with the business model impact, we contribute toward a conceptual synthesis for understanding the impact of (sustainable) smart PSS.

Advancements and Implications of Product Service Systems in the Automobile Industry: A Comprehensive Review

“…A PSS provides added value to customers and helps in building stronger relationships with customers by integrating various services (maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and training) [4]. Second, it increases the efficiency of products for both the provider and the customer, reducing the expense of equipment purchased by choosing equipment services in the form of lease or subscription, thereby reducing wastage, paid usage, and allocation of resources [4]. Third, over the entire lifecycle of products, better control and management is enabled, resulting in the reduction of waste, compliance with environmental regulations, Eng.…”

“…Proc. 2023, 59, 98 2 of 8 and resource consumption [4]. This results in linear material growth paradigms, sustainability through product service systems, and analysis of their impact on environment and drivers' adoption [4,5].…”

“…In the automobile industry, implementing PSSs offers an opportunity to reduce ecological impacts for mobility in a holistic manner and could revolutionize access, use, and maintenance of vehicles. Some major PSS uses in the automobile sector are (i) car-sharing programs [4], (ii) subscription-based models [4], (iii) mobility as a service (MaaS) [4], (iv) vehicle maintenance and servicing [4], (v) connected vehicle services [4], (vi) electric vehicles charging stations [4], and (vii) fleet management [4]. In the electric vehicle industry, PSS implementation plays a key role in promoting adoption and widespread use [4].…”

“…Some major PSS uses in the automobile sector are (i) car-sharing programs [4], (ii) subscription-based models [4], (iii) mobility as a service (MaaS) [4], (iv) vehicle maintenance and servicing [4], (v) connected vehicle services [4], (vi) electric vehicles charging stations [4], and (vii) fleet management [4]. In the electric vehicle industry, PSS implementation plays a key role in promoting adoption and widespread use [4]. Product service systems (PSSs) have emerged as a transformative solution, shifting the focus from ownership to tailored mobility services.…”