Robust design - a case study in a research and development company

Abstract

The paper aims to explore how organizations in the transition phase of co-location to multi-locations production environment applied Robust Design approach to accommodate the complexity of manufacturing and assembly operation in multi-location production environment. By using a single case study method on a home appliances Research and Development (R&D) Company, this paper examines the detail of design and operational transformations within the organization at pre and post implementation stage of Robust Design. The paper starts with enlightenment of issues faced by the company that drove the move to explore the application of Robust Design, follows by illustrations on how Robust Design concept is re-configured and executed across the product design process within the company. The paper subsequently reviews operational impact driven by the implementation of Robust Design. This is followed by discussion and recommendation for improvement. Result from the case study suggested that top management commitment is the key success factor for the implementation of Robust Design in Research and Development firm. In addition, the case study offers an alternative and effective approach to develop a robust system within design and development environment.