Delivering cost effective innovations: New methods to link innovation with detailed design

One of the key strategies applied by most manufacturers over the past few decades has been the aim of decreasing production costs, improving quality and shortening time to market. In this respect, the technique of Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA) has proved essential for improving the design of products and gaining competitive advantage. However, in recent years, the basis of competition has shifted towards the quick delivery of more innovative products. As a result companies are now looking for ways to enhance their technical innovation and creative problem solving, but at the same time retain control over product cost and quality.