Overview of methodologies for the lifecycle management of smart product-service systems

Abstract

Nowadays, companies are operating in increasingly competitive and dynamic markets with rapidly changing customer demands. In order to meet these challenges, digitalization can be leveraged to achieve a transformation in product and service development. As a result, new concepts and methods are emerging, including smart product-service systems (smart PSSs). In combination with smart, connected products (SCPs), added value can be generated for several contracting parties. There are various methodologies available for the development and usage of smart services. However, these are insufficiently applied in practice. Here, an overview of methodologies supporting the various phases of the lifecycle of smart PSSs is presented. In doing so, a classification of these approaches is derived and discussed, while the need for further methodological research is outlined.