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Environmental priorities in strategic product development
Author(s) -
Simon Matthew,
Poole Steve,
Sweatman Andrew,
Evans Steve,
Bhamra Tracy,
Mcaloone Tim
Publication year - 2000
Publication title -
business strategy and the environment
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.123
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1099-0836
pISSN - 0964-4733
DOI - 10.1002/1099-0836(200011/12)9:6<367::aid-bse262>3.0.co;2-d
Subject(s) - ecodesign , process management , design for the environment , new product development , product (mathematics) , prioritization , product lifecycle , computer science , knowledge management , action research , product design , engineering management , systems engineering , management science , business , engineering , manufacturing engineering , marketing , management , geometry , mathematics , economics
This paper reports some results from a major research project on the integration of environmental issues into design in the electrical and electronic industry. Product development practice and ecodesign methods were examined along with qualitative data from 19 manufacturers, using interviews and an action research methodology. A four‐stage framework for ecodesign practice resulted: first, to make an environmental assessment from a life cycle viewpoint; then to communicate the analysis and collect feedback; thirdly to prioritize the environmental issues and finally to complete the design using relevant tools and methods. This ‘ARPI’ framework (analyse, report, prioritize, improve) applies to both strategic and operational levels. Initial testing of the framework in collaborating companies highlighted difficulties with communication with design teams; the role of ‘ecodesign champions’ is explained. Other challenges are the development of customized tools and the training of designers. The study concludes that the prioritization step is critical, as it simplifies and clarifies the tasks in design that take place after formulation of the specification. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. and ERP Environment