Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
Two Sides of One Coin: Aligning Configuration System with Product Architecture for ETO Products
Qingsong Zhao, Lars Hvam
Type:
Year:
2025
Editor:
Ali A. Yassine, Christopher Langner, Matthias Kreimeyer, Tyson R. Browning, Steven D. Eppinger
Author:
Series:
DSM
Institution:
Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
Page(s):
70-78
DOI number:
Abstract:
In Engineering-to-Order (ETO) industries, configuration system and product architecture must be closely aligned to support efficient customization, as both the digital model and the design model describe the same product. However, in practice, there may be misalignments between these two domains. Using the Multiple-Domain Matrix (MDM) framework, the study captures internal interfaces within product architecture and configuration system, as well as cross-domain relationships between them. The framework was applied in a modular construction company as a case study and demonstrates the practical value of MDM for diagnosing alignment issues and supporting more consistent development of product architecture and configuration system. While the findings are based on a single case, this study offers practical insights and sets a foundation for future research, particularly in ETO companies with complex configuration systems.
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