A Systematic Selection of Production Management Methods for Productivity Improvement in Engineering

Many engineering companies suffer from a shortage of resources, which affects the productivity of engineering. This is the case for German companies; meanwhile other German-speaking countries face similar problems. A method to improve engineering productivity, decomposed into effectiveness and efficiency, is needed. Some authors suggest the application of production management methods to engineering management can improve productivity. However, the effect of production management methods on effectiveness or efficiency of engineering has not been established yet. This study applies production management methods into engineering processes and shows the necessary prerequisites for successful adoption. A Delphi survey with academics is utilised as a research method. The findings are condensed in a testable framework, which describes the application of production management methods to improve effectiveness and efficiency in engineering.