Data on the current state of problem solving and improvement during physical product development within complex...

Area of Science:

• Engineering Management
• Manufacturing Systems
• Product Development

Background:

• High failure costs necessitate early problem resolution in product development.
• Nonconformance problem-solving is a significant challenge in manufacturing complex, low-maturity products.
• Shortened innovation cycles demand increased efficiency in addressing issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the industrial status quo of nonconformance problem-solving in German companies.
• To identify existing deficits in current problem-solving practices for complex products.
• To provide a basis for dedicated research on solutions.

Main Methods:

• Data collected via an online questionnaire from 46 participants in German companies.
• Companies operate in sectors like automotive prototyping, aerospace, shipbuilding, special machinery, and electronics.
• Survey questions covered company characteristics, knowledge management, documentation systems, and technological potentials.

Main Results:

• The study provides insights into the current state of nonconformance problem-solving in the industry.
• Data highlights specific challenges and areas for improvement in managing nonconformances.
• Analysis reveals deficits in knowledge management and documentation systems.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the industrial status quo is essential for developing effective solutions.
• Targeted research is needed to address identified deficits in nonconformance problem-solving.
• Improving problem-solving processes can lead to reduced failure costs and enhanced innovation.