Ensuring correct product characteristics during the design process

For many companies, the design process and product design are treated as two separate domains. However, the design process needs to be controlled in such a way that desired product characteristics are attained. This paper proposes a decision support system (DSS) where management techniques develop linkages between process and product, and where the system identifies possible conflicts between product characteristics and design objectives. Product characteristics and the design process are decomposed into three levels and their relationship is identified. The DSS ensures that design activities accomplish product characteristics successfully. A goal-directed negotiation method that coordinates decisions is presented. An example of an aircraft pylon demonstrates the DSS method.