What is Concurrent Engineering?
Concurrent engineering is a systematic approach to integrated product development that emphasizes parallelization of tasks and collaboration across disciplines. It aims to optimize the design, manufacturing, and support processes by considering all elements of the product lifecycle simultaneously from the outset.
The role of concurrent engineering
Concurrent engineering is a way of working that integrates different stages of product development and allows multiple disciplines to work in parallel. Accelerate product development cycles, enhance product quality, and reduce costs by enabling cross-functional teams to collaborate seamlessly, sharing information, and making collective decisions from the earliest stages of design.
This methodology aligns closely with other modern engineering approaches, such as MBSE (model-based systems engineering) and digital twin technology, creating a comprehensive framework for efficient product development.
In manufacturing, concurrent engineering principles extend beyond design to encompass production planning, supply chain management, and even after-sales support. This holistic approach ensures that products are not only well-designed but also optimized for manufacturability, maintainability, and overall lifecycle performance.
What are the benefits of concurrent engineering?
Reduce time-to-market
Concurrent engineering can provide a crucial competitive advantage, enabling companies to respond more effectively to market demands and technological advancements.
Enhance product quality
This proactive approach leads to more robust designs, fewer late-stage changes, and ultimately, higher quality products that better meet customer needs and regulatory requirements.
What’s the best way to get started with concurrent engineering?
To implement concurrent engineering effectively, organizations need to adopt a structured approach that encompasses people, processes, and technology. Keep reading to discover our recommended approach to concurrent engineering, or reach out to us for a free consultation today.
Evaluate existing workflows and identify areas where concurrent activities can be introduced. This assessment should involve stakeholders from all relevant departments.
Form multidisciplinary teams that bring together expertise from design, engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and other relevant areas. Ensure clear communication channels and collaborative decision-making processes.
Deploy PLM software and other digital tools that support real-time collaboration, data sharing, and version control across teams and locations.
Create new processes that allow for parallel activities while maintaining necessary dependencies. This may involve redefining roles and responsibilities within the organization.
Ensure all team members are trained in concurrent engineering principles and the use of new tools. Provide ongoing support to facilitate the transition to the new way of working.
Need help with Concurrent engineering?
Jake Taylor and team are on-hand to provide tailored guidance and support with a deep knowledge of the full Dassault Systèmes portfolio. Reach out for a free consultation today.
Essential software for concurrent engineering
For end-to-end PLM (product lifecycle management) and collaborative innovation.
For complex engineering design and assembly modeling.
For robust product data management, business analytics, and decision support.
For virtual testing, analyzing, and optimizing product performance.
For optimizing manufacturing processes, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing product quality.
For improving quality assurance in virtual product development.
For seamless integration of enterprise systems and data management.
View our extensive range of software solutions