Research opportunities in PSS design focusing on the potentials of agile approaches

Abstract

Abstract Product-Service Systems (PSS) are offerings combining product, service and, in some cases, internet-of-things (IoT) functionalities to a uniform value proposition (e.g. car sharing), which promises higher customer value, greater sustainability, constant revenue streams and other benefits. The development of PSS, however, adds extra complexity to development processes compared to stand-alone products. While a lot of research exists in the field of PSS development processes, application in industry is still low. One possible explanation for that is that the plan-driven logic behind process models, which differs from the trends regarding agility and new iterative management models. Hence, as a result it needs to be clarified if agile approaches can benefit PSS design models? Fourteen researchers in the domains of PSS development and process model design from the University of Sao Paulo and Technical University of Berlin met in two workshop sessions, lasting for four days each, in order to explore barriers for industry application of PSS development theory and to identify research opportunities regarding agile approaches for more practical PSS design models. The research team has conducted multiple sessions using different methods such as world cafe, concept map, cause-effect diagram, in order to identify research questions. Industry experts, who attended the workshop, as well as visits to PSS providers in Germany and Brazil, have been used to verify our findings assuring practical relevance. This paper presents a list of research opportunities identified that consolidate an initial research agenda. We found that it is necessary to explore the potentials of agile approaches in PSS design to better synchronize development cycles, to incorporate different stakeholders and their interfaces and to adapt development plans to dynamic environments. These research routes can be a solution for practical, flexible and simple PSS design models.