The paper proposes a framework for analysing the performances of product-service systems (PSSs) development processes using a balanced scorecard (BSC) as an instrument to guide the implementation and the evaluation of new methods and tools. Emerging from a case study in the aerospace industry, the paper discusses the main challenges in PSS development and proposes a performance measurement framework for PSS development based on multi-criteria indicators. Finally, the benefits of a framework for PSS development performance measurement are discussed.

The Product-Service System (PSS) paradigm is recognized as a means for companies to increase the value perceived by the customers, thus gaining competitive advantage beyond traditional ‘pure product’ offerings. Researches have shown the necessity to rethink design processes in a PSS context, in order to drive the successful integration of product and service features in early design phases. In the last few years, several new approaches have been proposed, however little attention has been paid on how to translate these approaches into action and on how to evaluate their performances and effectiveness. This paper proposes a framework for analysing the performances in PSS development process using a Balanced Scorecard approach, as a tool to guide the implementation and the evaluation of new methods and tools in the early design phases. The paper starts with discussing the main challenges encountered when designing PSS, and then, adopting an aerospace industry as an example, to propose an application of the Balance Scorecard for the implementation and measurement of PSS development. Finally, the main pros and cons are discussed in relation to strengths and weaknesses of using balanced scorecard in PSS development. The framework developed in this paper can provide a useful guidance for the managers in measuring the performances of the PSS development process.

This paper presents a computer-based approach for conceptual design that aims to enhance collaborative supply chain development in the automotive sector when dealing with product-service development or radical innovations. The focus of the research has been to design a simulation approach that will enable designers and managers to simulate and evaluate the value of different design options for the different stakeholders involved in the development process and to have insights about the implications between business model innovation and the engineered aspects of the solutions early in the conceptual phase. The approach is presented using a case study within the current project, after following a team responsible for the car cockpit. Four possible scenario have been simulated and evaluated using a commercial simulation software. The main advantage of the proposed approach is to enhance the awareness among designers and managers of the value of different design options, and allow them to explore further how business and design aspects profoundly affect each other, in order to support early decision-making in the design process.