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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.

Why cost estimation matters for design decisions in the early phases of product development and what practitioners expect from artificial intelligence

Michelberger, Claudia (1); Klöpfer, Kevin (2); Huber, Marco F. (1,2)

Type:
Papers
DS 145: Proceedings of the DESIGN2026 19th International Design Conference
Year:
2026
Editor:
Štorga, M.; Škec, S.; Martinec, T.; Marjanović, D.; Pavković, N.
Author:
Michelberger, Claudia (1); Klöpfer, Kevin (2); Huber, Marco F. (1,2)
Series:
DESIGN
Institution:
1: Institute of Industrial Manufacturing and Management IFF, University of Stuttgart, Germany; 2: Fraunhofer IPA, Germany
Page(s):
717-726
DOI number:
10.1017/pds.2026.10430
ISSN:
2732-527X (Online)
Abstract:
In the early phases of product development, cost estimation is crucial for supporting design decisions. When cost estimates are inaccurate or delayed, design engineers cannot assess economic viability and may pursue concepts that later prove too costly. In this context, artificial intelligence (AI) offers new possibilities for more accurate and timely cost estimates, yet adoption in practice remains limited. Based on an interview study with 22 cost engineers and an online survey of 102 respondents, this study examines practices, challenges, and expectations for AI-assisted cost estimation.
Keywords:
artificial intelligence (AI), design costing, product development, empirical studies
DESIGN2026 - The 19th International Design Conference
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