Concurrent engineering in product introduction: some requirements for information management

Product Introduction is an inherently co-operative activity in which cross-functional teams work on different facets of the product. It requires effective management of the business processes involved, the vast amount of product data that is generated and communication between the heterogeneous, geographically distributed teams. Concurrent Engineering has emerged as one of the most commonly referenced enablers for improved product introduction. The capture, change and transfer of evolving information become the main requirements for enabling concurrent engineering in product introduction. This paper discusses the distinguishing characteristics of the product introduction process, and identifies the requirements for Information Management for concurrent engineering in product introduction.