The Product Development Process Management in capital goods suppliers for the sugar-energy industry

Abstract

This study analyzes the product development process (PDP) management in a sample of medium and large manufacturing companies that supply capital goods for the sugar-energy industry. A research survey was conducted by applying an in-loco questionnaire with those responsible for product development in 31 companies. Cluster analysis was performed on the group of companies based on the degree of formalization of strategic and operational procedures and performance measurement, both relevant for the maturity of the PDP. Three groups of companies were identified and the results were displayed in a comparative manner. In the strategic dimension, there were more marked differences between the groups in relation to the degree of activities formalization and use of systematic methods. The operational dimension was more structured than the strategic one in the analyzed sample. In performance assessment, there are a lack of monitoring and evaluation mechanisms of the PDP results and little appreciation for staff training and qualification monitoring programs.

Keywords

• Product development process
• Capital goods
• Sugar-energy industry
• PDP management