Understanding Product Similarity Using Customer Needs Conference Paper uri icon

abstract

  • 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.

name of conference

  • Volume 3: 10th International Conference on Design Theory and Methodology

published proceedings

  • Volume 3: 10th International Conference on Design Theory and Methodology

author list (cited authors)

  • McAdams, D. A., Stone, R. B., & Wood, K. L.

citation count

  • 9

complete list of authors

  • McAdams, Daniel A||Stone, Robert B||Wood, Kristin L

publication date

  • September 1998