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.
Application Fields and Areas of Untapped Potential for Dependency and Structure Modeling Methods
Langner, Christopher (1); Schütze, Simon (1); Browning, Tyson (2); Roth, Daniel (1); Kreimeyer, Matthias (1)
Type:
Year:
2026
Editor:
Langner, Christopher; Kreimeyer, Matthias; Panarotto, Massimo; Cascini, Gaetano; Browning, Tyson R.; Eppinger, Steven D.; Yassine, Ali A.
Author:
Langner, Christopher (1); Schütze, Simon (1); Browning, Tyson (2); Roth, Daniel (1); Kreimeyer, Matthias (1)
Series:
DSM
Institution:
1: University of Stuttgart, Germany;
2: Texas Christian University, Neeley School of Business, Forth Worth, TX, USA
Page(s):
221-248
DOI number:
ISBN:
NA
ISSN:
NA
Abstract:
This paper systematically reviews current applications of dependency and structure modeling (DSM/DMM/MDM) across industries, disciplines, and purposes through an analysis of 208 publications. Dominant use cases cluster in product/service development and design process management, particularly in automotive, aerospace, and architecture-engineering-construction sectors. DSMs remain the most widely applied method, while MDMs show growing adoption. Key purposes include project/process planning, modular design, and system modeling, with clustering and partitioning/sequencing as prevalent analyses. Cross-category insights reveal that product development and modular design frequently align with automotive and software industries, suggesting expansion potential in aerospace and mobility systems. Conversely, enterprise management and manufacturing planning remain underrepresented despite their practical relevance. For MDMs, especially the broader utilization in aerospace or software development could pose worthwhile directions for expansion. AI-driven applications are notably absent, highlighting a critical gap for future research. The findings provide actionable guidance for practitioners while identifying strategic opportunities to broaden DSM/DMM/MDM adoption.
Keywords:
