Product service systems and supply network relationships: an exploratory case study

摘要

Purpose - In recent years there has been increasing interest in Product ServiceSystems (PSS) as a business model for selling integrated product and serviceofferings. To date there has been extensive research into the benefits of PSS tomanufacturers and their customers, but there has been limited research into theeffect of PSS on the upstream supply chain. It is this gap that this researchseeks to address. Design/Methodology/Approach - The research uses case basedresearch which is appropriate for exploratory research of this type. In depthinterviews were conducted with key personnel in a focal firm and two members ofits supply chain and the results were analysed to identify emergent themes.Findings - The research has identified differences in supplier behaviourdependent on their role in PSS delivery and their relationship with the PSSprovider. In particular it suggests that for a successful partnership it isimportant to align the objectives between PSS provider and suppliers.Originality/ value - This research provides a detailed investigation into a PSSsupply chain and highlights the complexity of roles and relationships among theorganisations within it. It will be of value to other PSS researchers andorganisations transitioning to the delivery of PSS. Keywords - Product ServiceSystems, Servitization, Supply Networks, Relationships, Case Study, ProductLifecycle