Key Findings to Support the Development of a Framework for the Implementation of Product Lifecycle Management in Engineer to Order Products

BAE Systems Naval Ships has undertaken a comprehensive overhaul of all aspects of its approach to the engineering, design and manufacture of complex warships. Through a partnership with the University of Strathclyde, research has been completed on the implementation of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) to meet organisational objectives in the development of Engineer to Order (ETO) products. Engineer to Order (ETO) products include characteristics such as high capital value, large-scale, long-life, no prototype, highly customised and few or one off. An overview of PLM is provided highlighting the challenges specific to the characteristics of ETO products. The paper then provides a summary of the key findings of approximately 30 semi-structured interviews with leading industry personnel, in the UK and internationally, on PLM implementation in ETO products. These participants are engaged with PLM in ETO products either as an implementer or as a key stakeholder with an interest in its successful use within their organisation. The findings have been used to support the development of a framework to ensure that PLM implementation supports the business objectives of ETO product development.