Framework to select vital product design methodologies using a multi-criteria decision tool for an industry segment

ABSTRACT

This paper presents a classification of product design methodologies for manufacturing refrigerator in Bangladesh and selection of the most vital methodologies. Design methodologies include design for production, design for manufacturability, design for aesthetics, design for environment and design for ergonomics. Each product design methodologies are distinguished with good explanation and pictorial illustration. The selection of the most vital methodology for a particular product (refrigerator) in a particular market/country may depend on following criteria or variables: sales quantity, product durability, cost saving, ease on production, etc. Multi-criteria decision method like analytic hierarchy process (AHP) could be a useful tool in comparative study of different product design methodologies based on different criteria for selection of the most vital methodologies. In this research, AHP is used in a specific way for selection of the most vital product design methodologies for manufacturing refrigerator in Bangladesh. This framework may also be used for other industries.

KEYWORDS:

• Product design
• multi-criteria decision method
• analytic hierarchy process
• design methodology

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.