Optimizing product configuration processes

This thesis investigates the implementation of a new product configuration process and the key factors that determine the success of the new process. Through data collection methods and several analyses of the collected data, five key aspects were identified: Standardization of formats and processes, Streamlining data flow, Enhanced version control, Minimizing human errors, and Adapting to systems and external parties. Comprehensive analyses revealed that standardization and streamlining significantly improve efficiency and reduce errors. The practical implementation of a new IT system within the configuration process at the collaborative company Polestar underscored the importance of establishing clear templates and workflows to enhance consistency and ease of use. Streamlining data flow through automated notifications and system integration minimized delays and gaps, increasing visibility and accountability. Enhanced version control systems facilitated accurate tracking of document revisions, promoting transparency and compliance for external and internal audits and regulations. Minimizing human errors involved automating repetitive tasks and implementing validation checks, improving accuracy and efficiency. Adapting to systems and external parties emphasized the importance of collaboration and alignment to ensure seamless data exchange. These findings align with the Lean methodology, which emphasizes continuous improvement and customer-centricity. Analyses conducted in this project provided a profound understanding of data flow dynamics, overcoming challenges associated with stakeholder comprehension. Initial visual mapping clarified data flow, while subsequent process and information models offered nuanced insights into process dynamics and data integration, empowering stakeholders to identify areas for improvement. This clarity facilitated collaborative efforts, evident during the implementation of the new IT system with Polestar. Moreover, the analysis of the new IT system underscored the significance of "Minimizing Human Errors" and "Enhanced Version Control" in mitigating information loss. Automated change logs and dedicated SharePoint folders streamlined document tracking, reducing errors and enhancing efficiency and compliance with regulations. Prioritizing these factors led to a smoother configuration process, minimizing information loss and enhancing user accountability. Further research is recommended to validate these findings across diverse companies beyond Polestar, confirming the effectiveness of the identified framework in various industries. Additionally, refining the developed IT system to address bugs and expand its coverage within the configuration process could enhance its performance. Exploring the optimal configuration process structure, whether a single supersystem or multiple subsystems, would be valuable for future investigation, offering insights into associated benefits and challenges

Department dc:contributor.department

Chalmers tekniska högskola / Institutionen för industri- och materialvetenskap

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Authors dc:creator

• Udén, Adam
• Mannerstråle, Victor

Advisor dc:contributor.supervisor

• Bergsjö, Dag

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12380/308681

OAI record oai:identifier

https://odr.chalmers.se/oai/request?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=dim&identifier=oai%3Aodr.chalmers.se%3A20.500.12380%2F308681