Concurrent engineering: making it work calls for input from everyone

The elements necessary to the successful application of concurrent engineering (CE) are examined. Implementing CE takes commitment by the entire organization, from top to bottom. It takes education at all levels so that everyone speaks a common language. It takes repetition: managers and engineers must constantly impress upon their peers, and those above and below them, their commitment to CE. The CE organization must integrate the expertise from all the functions with the product design phase. The members of the team should be located near each other to encourage ongoing communications. It helps to provide workspaces for everyone connected with the team, even for people in ancillary disciplines who spend only part of their time on the project. Alternatively, or sometimes in addition, the product development team may accompany the product as it moves through its design and development phases. This will teach all team members the consequences of their earlier decisions. Getting closer to both customers and suppliers during the development process is also important.<>