Functional interdependence and product similarity based on customer needs

In this paper, related product functions are determined for a group of approximately 70 consumer products. Using customer need data, a new matrix approach is introduced to identify these relationships. Techniques are then created for determining product similarity. These techniques ai-e clarified and validated through three case studies, including beverage brewers and material-removal products. The results of these case studies are argued to have significant impact on design-by-analogy procedures, bench-marking methods, mass customization strategies and modular design. The paper concludes with a discussion of applications and related procedures for product development.