Understanding Product Similarity using Customer Needs

Author

Daniel A. McAdams, Missouri University of Science and Technology
Robert B. Stone, Missouri University of Science and Technology
Kristin L. Wood

Abstract

In this paper, related product functions are determined for a group of approximately 70 consumer products. Using customer need data, a new matrix approach is introduced to identify these relationships. Techniques are then created for determining product similarity. These techniques are clarified and validated through three case studies, including beverage brewers and material-removal products. The results of these case studies are argued to have significant impact on design-by-analogy procedures, benchmarking methods, mass customization strategies, and modular design. The paper concludes with a discussion of applications and related procedures for product development.

Recommended Citation

D. A. McAdams et al., "Understanding Product Similarity using Customer Needs," Proceedings of the ASME Design Engineering Technical Conference, vol. 3, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Jan 1998.

The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.1115/DETC98/DTM-5660

Department(s)

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Comments

National Science Foundation, Grant None

International Standard Book Number (ISBN)

978-079188033-3

Document Type

Article - Conference proceedings

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2024 American Society of Mechanical Engineers, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 1998