Concurrent engineering: new rules for world-class companies

The use of concurrent engineering (CE) techniques for developing and manufacturing high-quality products by companies that compete successfully around the world is examined. CE starts with multifunctional teaming, but it also includes concepts and techniques such as design for manufacture (DFM), continuous process improvement (CPI), total quality management (TQM), and quality function deployment (QFD). With CE, product development involves all parts of an organization. The benefits of CE-shorter time for product introduction, improved design quality, reduced design iterations, and shorter production time-are outlined. Advice for forming an interfunctional or interdisciplinary team is offered, and the use of structured analysis is briefly examined.>