Methodical Approach for Consideration of Ramp-up Risks in the Product Development of Complex Products

Abstract

A new product development represents a technical, organisational and financial challenge for companies. The use of new technologies and implementation of innovative approaches involves the risk that there may be unforeseen problems in the development and production process. A delay of the production ramp-up leads to loss of profits or substantial damage claims by customers. Due to the strong influence of the ramp- up phase on the success of the product, consideration should be made in the early stages of development. Therefore the aim must be to provide a basis for decisions already during the development under initial uncertainties.At the beginning of the paper a short overview of the terminology in the field of ramp-up management and risk assessment in the context of product development is given. Based on the literature review several main influencing factors on ramp-up performance are derived. The main influencing factors on the transition will be the basis to identify and visualise company-specific ramp-up risks. Afterwards the methodical approach for assessment of ramp-up risks is presented. And the paper will close with a practical example from the aircraft industry in the field of cabin integration.