Case Study Research to Foster the Optimization of Supply Chain Management through the PSS Approach

Mario Fargnoli, Nicolas Haber and Massimo Tronci
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Mario Fargnoli: Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Sapienza—University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Rome, Italy
Nicolas Haber: Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Sapienza—University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Rome, Italy
Massimo Tronci: Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Sapienza—University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Rome, Italy

Sustainability, 2022, vol. 14, issue 4, 1-19

Abstract: The optimization of a product’s whole life cycle has become a mandatory task for manufacturers seeking to deal with circular economy requirements while gaining competitiveness in the market. In order to achieve such a sustainability goal, alignment of production, distribution, and field service activities is needed. In the literature, numerous studies indicate the product–service system (PSS) approach as one of the most promising business models to combine the needs of manufacturers and customers in an efficient and effective manner. However, PSS solutions aimed at practically optimizing supply chain management have scarcely been addressed. In order to reduce this gap, the current study proposes a procedure based on the PSS Functional Matrix, the Screening Life Cycle Modelling (SLCM) method, and stock management theory to optimize aftermarket services based on market demand. A case study in the medical equipment sector, where market demand can fluctuate during the contract period, is presented. The analytical results show beneficial effects in terms of both costs and environmental impact, suggesting the need for further research to augment knowledge on PSS and supply chain management. In particular, the PSS allowed the company to customize the manufacturer’s business model, adapting the supply of aftermarket services to varying customer needs.

Keywords: product–service system (PSS); screening life-cycle modelling (SLCM); circular economy (CE); supply chain management; aftermarket services; PSS functional matrix; life-cycle engineering; customer demand; customization (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (5)

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