A methodology for module portfolio planning within the service solution layer of a product–service system

Abstract

The key for addressing the contradiction between personalization and low cost is to achieve modularity within a product–service system (PSS). In order to obtain maximum customer satisfaction and the lowest lifecycle cost in a PSS, a portfolio of modules should be optimally planned for the service solution layer of the PSS. First, a methodology for planning the module portfolio for a PSS service solution layer is proposed. The methodology consists of four phases which are (1) service requirement acquisition, (2) finding the principal solution and building the preliminary modular structure, (3) configuring the portfolio of principal solutions, and (4) evaluating the modular solutions (the four phases include five steps). Detailed technical steps and implementation methods for each stage are presented. Second, an evaluation method is proposed for the PSS module portfolio of solutions based on utility price ratios. Based on customer utility and the lifecycle costs of the PSS, a solution is implemented incorporating a maximum ratio between customer satisfaction and service usage. Finally, a case study involving a power transformer using the PSS solution is carried out to validate the methodology proposed in the paper.