Article,
Framing business cases for the success of product configuration system projects
Contributors
Shafiee, Sara
0000-0001-9433-5060
(Corresponding author)
[1]
Forza, Cipriano
0000-0003-4583-2962
[2]
Kristjansdottir, Katrin
0000-0003-2036-7398
[1]
Haug, A.
0000-0001-6173-6925
[3]
Hvam, Lars
0000-0002-7617-2971
[1]
Affiliations
- [1] Tech Univ Denmark, Dept Civil & Mech Engn, Nils Koppels Alle,Bldg 404,Room 232, DK-2800 Lyngby, Denmark [NORA names: DTU Technical University of Denmark; University; Denmark; Europe, EU; Nordic; OECD];
- [2] Univ Padua, Dept Management & Engn, Stradella San Nicola 3, Vicenza, Italy [NORA names: Italy; Europe, EU; OECD];
- [3] Univ Southern Denmark, Dept Entrepreneurship & Relationship Management, Kolding, Denmark [NORA names: SDU University of Southern Denmark; University; Denmark; Europe, EU; Nordic; OECD]
Abstract
Product configuration systems (PCSs) are peculiar IT applications used for efficient product customization. Unfortunately, PCS implementation involves many challenges. A well-defined business case (BC) could increase PCS project success. However, the literature does not provide specific guidance for building BCs for PCS projects. The proposed BC framework for PCS projects was developed based on literature and professional expertise, and tested in three PCS projects at two engineer-to-order (ETO) companies. Figures of benefits, costs, ROIs, scenario examples, sensitivity analyses, risk analyses, and key information about application experiences were reported. The framework test shows that it is viable and helps overcome PCS challenges.
