The Player-Interface method: a structured approach to support Product-Service Systems concept generation

For manufacturing companies, the integration of service elements to support product offering has become a key factor in gaining competitive advantage. Product-Service Systems (PSSs) are value offerings that combine tangible products and intangible services. To date, their design process is still critical. There are several aspects that designers need to consider, including (i) the variety of PSS elements, (ii) potential interactions between PSS players and (iii) lasting customer relationships. Considering these issues, this paper proposes a novel operative tool, herein named Player-Interface (PI) method, to support designers in the definition of new PSS concepts. The method helps designers to activate new service or product elements based on the analysis of the possible interactions between the PSS players. The description is supported by a case study in the manufacturing sector.