Structuring product families based on a common platform is a successful strategy for coping with the problems of high variety products. Systematically developed product platforms offer a high product variance on the market side while preserving many of the economies of scale along the whole value chain usually only accessible by standardised products. Furthermore, new products can be realised faster from a common platform and competitive advantages can be created in consequence. Prerequisite for the conception of a suitable platform is a flexible product architecture and a consistent product-market strategy. The potential benefits however require extensive preparatory work and resources. Therefore methodological action for the structuring of product families is necessary. This paper describes the platform concept and shows its potential for product family management. It further presents a framework for action to create product platforms in accordance with product strategy.
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