Framing research for service orientation of manufacturers through PSS approaches

Abstract

Purpose

In order to respond to the industrial trend towards service design and delivery, research must address a vast area partially related to value creation, marketing and network theories. However, compared to the space to be explored, there is little insight available. Thus, the purpose of this paper, as a first step, is to propose a way to frame such research.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive literature review is performed of over 100 articles on product/service system (PSS) in general, service design, innovation, and business models in a broad view. Then, the analysis from the authors' viewpoint is carried out to give a frame.

Findings

The paper presents three crucial dimensions for service‐orientation research, i.e. an offer dimension representing products and services, a provider dimension, and a customer/user dimension. In addition, three research targets are proposed: PSS‐offer modelling, PSS development and PSS potential. Furthermore, several promising future research directions are identified. These include evaluating economic consequences or environmental benefits, establishing terminology, organizational issues, and developing methods and tools to support designers.

Originality/value

The paper presents a way of viewing research for service orientation, which contributes especially to further research in this area.

Citation

Sakao, T., Ölundh Sandström, G. and Matzen, D. (2009), "Framing research for service orientation of manufacturers through PSS approaches", Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, Vol. 20 No. 5, pp. 754-778. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410380910961082