An integrated fuzzy approach for Information Technology Planning in Collaborative Product Development

Abstract

Collaborative Product Development processes are generally based on technological infrastructures and various information technologies are proposed every day to facilitate collaboration, integration, co-design and co-development processes. In this highly uncertain environment, a systematic methodology is essential to plan the Information Technology infrastructure needed to start and maintain the collaborative process. This study offers an integrated Information Technology planning methodology combining Fuzzy Quality Function Deployment, Fuzzy Axiomatic Design and Fuzzy Rule Based Systems. The methodology is tested in a Collaborative Product Development case and the outcome presents an improvement path for Information Technologies for each of the collaborative parties.