Modularization
Author
Eskildsen, Kenneth
Term
10. term
Publication year
2011
Submitted on
2011-05-31
Pages
74
Abstract
This thesis examines how modularization can be initiated and managed in companies beyond traditionally modular industries such as aerospace and automotive. It addresses two core questions: which requirements and factors are critical for successful modularization, and how theoretical guidance aligns with real-world practice—particularly the role of cross-functional collaboration. The study begins with a literature review of key contributions on product architectures, mass customization, and methods such as Modular Function Deployment, synthesizing these into a set of requirements for using modularization as a strategic and product development tool. It then conducts a multiple case study of Danish companies from varied sectors that have applied modularization to different degrees. Empirical data are gathered through open, questionnaire-guided interviews with managers experienced in modularization and analyzed to identify convergence and divergence between theory and practice. Emphasis is placed on organizational roles, specification and interface definition, and benefits such as economies of scale, mix-and-match, and production flexibility. Findings and conclusions are not included in this excerpt.
Dette speciale undersøger, hvordan modularisering kan initieres og ledes i virksomheder uden for de traditionelt modulære industrier som luftfart og automobil. Udgangspunktet er to forskningsspørgsmål: Hvilke krav og faktorer er afgørende for en vellykket modularisering, og hvordan stemmer teoretiske anbefalinger overens med praksis – særligt hvad angår tværfunktionelt samarbejde? Først gennemføres en litteraturgennemgang af centrale bidrag om produktarkitektur, mass customization og metoder som Modular Function Deployment, hvilket munder ud i et sæt krav og overvejelser for at bruge modularisering strategisk. Dernæst følger et multiple case study af danske virksomheder fra forskellige brancher, der har arbejdet med modularisering i varierende omfang. Empirien indsamles gennem åbne, spørgeramme-baserede interviews med ledere med direkte erfaring, og analyseres for at identificere konvergens og divergens mellem teori og praksis. Fokus er på organisatoriske roller, specifikations- og grænsefladearbejde samt gevinster som skala, mix-and-match og fleksibel produktion. Resultater og konklusioner er ikke præsenteret i dette uddrag.
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