Applying Design of Experiments in Product Development Process

Purpose – The constant changes in production systems has sought to cater largely to the needs of customers. The market, since then, has become increasingly competitive. In this context of seeking a competitive edge to impress customers and keeps them retrospectively, companies has developed new products. The lack of a clear  management and a method in the Product Development Process (PDP) may cause the companies are unable to incorporate new technologies that result in significant improvements. The purpose of this article, therefore, is to propose the use of technique Design of Experiments (DoE) in PDP in Small and Medium Enterprise (SME).
Methodology – The study was conducted in an small ice cream artisanal shop. In order to conduct research methodology was elaborated: (1) Design of idea, (2) Listen to voice of customers, (3) Listen to voice of experts, (4) Identificating the parameters of interest; (5) Design of Experiments, (6) Analysis, (7) Optimization; (8) Product Release.
Findings – At the end of the product, it can be said that the use of DoE in PDP provided a successful outcome, with an innovative product on the market and improving aspects of information management within the organization studied. It stands out as positive the company has a great innovation environment, which is characterized by being very open to new and bold ideas. It is suggested the application of this study in other SMEs to improve the management of innovation.

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Design of Experiments, Product Development Process, Innovation Management, Artisanal Ice Cream Shop.