Characteristics of High Performance Value Streams

Abstract

Mass customisation aims at supplying individualised products to a wide customer base, while achieving costs comparable to mass production. However, the degree of individualisation of mass customised products is limited. Certain companies achieve to combine the high product individuality provided by the engineer-to-order concept with the efficiency of mass customisation. By using web-based technologies, these companies integrate the customer into their order processing. Through a digital frontend, the customer is enabled to configure, lay out or design the desired individual product within a defined product solution space. In combination with an automated production preparation and a production process capable for the entire solution space, these companies produce individual products within shortest lead times at low costs. Due to the combination of high product individuality at extremely short lead times as well as competitive costs, the authors name this concept High Performance Value Stream.This paper characterises the concept of High Performance Value Streams and points out the main aspects. In a series of interviews, High Performance Value Streams within the industry were analysed. Characteristic types as well as examples from the industry are pointed out. For relevant aspects of the order fulfilment process of individual and individualised products, morphological boxes with distinctive features are presented.