Using Site-based Techniques to Evolve the Product Development Process in Manufacturing Industries

Many manufacturing industries, especially small to medium-sized companies, are in the process of exploring the move from two-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) technologies to three-dimensional CAD tools interfaced with product data management (PDM) systems. For many companies, their current organizational structure is not well suited to fully leverage the capabilities of new CAD/PDM technology. This paper explores the author’s experiences working in the residential furniture industry, helping companies successfully integrate CAD/PDM systems into their engineering and manufacturing operations. Of particular focus was the role user-centered, site-based techniques played in helping one company with this integration process. Both current and future scenarios based on an in-depth analysis of the product developed process were generated and used to help guide an implementation plan for a new CAD/PDM system.