Integrated green and quality function deployment

Using the 'Matrix Approach' of simplified Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) together with Enhanced Quality Function Deployment (EQFD), a new product development and improvement methodology termed 'Integrated Green and Quality Function Deployment' (IGQFD) is proposed. The focus on quality and eco-efficiency needs results in greater and more interactive integration of these areas, thus reducing the arbitrary assumptions in a coherent product strategy. The most innovative aspects are essentially the introduction of two new design tools in the product development process. In particular, the lack of effective integration in Green Quality Function Deployment-II (GQFD-II) Zhang et al., (1999) is overcome in IGQFD by means of the 'Green and Quality House' (GQH); this tool allows not only the joint optimisation of requirements in product development but also the continual integration of objectives. The second innovative tool is the 'Concept Selection Matrix' (CSM), which identifies the design alternative that best combines the needs of the stakeholders, the direction in which the company wishes to move. The methodology has been applied in a case study of the design of an engine oil filter.