Axiomatic Design, originally developed by Nam Suh, is a design methodology that attempts to systematize the design practices and to provide a basis on which design can be carried out and optimized according to two main axioms, namely, Independence and Information axioms. Although various scholars in both academia and industry have studied the applicability and effectiveness of this methodology, the extent to which Axiomatic Design has been implemented in industry, particularly in the U.S., is unknown.; This study was conducted to identify the extent to which Axiomatic Design is known to the U.S. industries. Other purposes of this study included identifying the factors influencing the use of the methodology, learning users' opinions on the effectiveness of Axiomatic Design, and determining the methods and strategies used in introducing Axiomatic Design. The results of this study indicated that the methodology is not well known in the U.S. automotive industries. In addition, the role of management in supporting the implementation is critical. The methodology should be first applied to relatively small projects so the company could better realize its values and be aware of its weaknesses, if any.; Axiomatic Design is not, and should not be regarded as, the only design methodology. It rather provides a framework within which one can use its axioms, a well as various design methods. Furthermore, if other design methodologies such as Design for Six Sigma are implemented, one still can use Axiomatic Design to examine the design content to insure its conformity to the functional requirements.
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