RDM at the Back-end of Product Development Process

Paper in proceeding, 2011

Abstract Purpose – This paper aims to apply robust design methodology (RDM) principles at the back-end of a product development process as a way to create greater customer satisfaction and support a sustainable product development. Methodology/approach – Based on the literature, a framework combining RDM principles with exploratory data analysis (EDA) is proposed. This framework is used to analyze customer warranty claim data of a Swedish manufacturing company. Findings – From a theoretical standpoint, we found useful connections between RDM principles and EDA principles, thus contributing to a new framework for data analysis. From a practical standpoint, the framework has led to revelation of valuable improvement ideas for the company in the areas of practices supporting customer focus, robustness, and sustainability. Research limitations/implications – The research data are limited to the organization‟s claim data recorded during the last 5 years (2006-2010). Investigation of the interrelationships between various departments of the company with respect to the claim database was not included in the context of this project. Originality/value – The proposed framework combining robust design principles and exploratory data analysis serves as a tool for data analysis in quality improvement projects in general. The findings from the claim data analysis show the usefulness of robust design thinking at the back-end of product development process in creating higher level of customer satisfaction and contributing to sustainable development.