Article2007

Implementing a platform strategy for a systems business via standardization

Harshavardhan Karandikar · Srinivas Nidamarthi

14 citations0/0 files storedJournal of Manufacturing Technology Management

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Product Development and Customization Systems Engineering Methodologies and Applications Digital Platforms and Economics

Abstract

Purpose The benefits of a platform strategy in volume product businesses are well established. Such a strategy can also pay dividends in a low‐volume systems or projects business. The benefits include increased engineering efficiency, higher solution reliability and reduced direct costs. The purpose of this paper is to describe the mechanism for the implementation of such a platform strategy via a design standardization initiative and discuss the technical challenges involved. The paper describes the case of the automotive powertrain assembly line business. Design/methodology/approach For the past three years, the authors were an integral part of the engineering teams at four systems businesses, automotive suppliers with a global footprint, driving the process of standardization and engineering platform development. The concepts presented in the paper were developed and validated during the course of this effort. Findings Implementation of an engineering platform can succeed via a design and work process standardization initiative embedded in a strong business context. The problems involved – technical, organizational, and cultural – must be dealt with simultaneously and comprehensively. Practical implications The practical steps that need to be taken and the comprehensive approach required to implement platform concepts in a systems/projects business are highlighted. Originality/value There is considerable literature on the planning and design of product platforms. However, there is less discussion of how to implement these platforms in practice considering the organizational constraints and legacy products. Further, there is even less published literature on platform development for complex systems treated as products.

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References

1997The power of product platforms : building value and cost leadership 2006Product Platform and Product Family Design 2003Platform‐Driven Development of Product Families: Linking Theory with Practice 1998Another look at how Toyota integrates product development 1999Introducing Interface Management in New Product Family Development 2001Putting a Price on Solutions 2004The implementation process of standardisation

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2021Exploring the benefits and trade-offs of design standardization in capital projects 2008A value chain oriented approach for the development of global platforms in the systems business 2023Toward a new way of thinking 2012Development of modular product architecture through information management 2010Platform-oriented product development: prospects and limitations

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