FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO THE USE OF MODULARISATION IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY: A SURVEY IN BRAZIL

Authors

  • Miguel Afonso Sellitto UNISINOS
  • Fabiano Lima Nunes FEEVALE
  • Domingos Rafael Ferla Vallladares Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul - PUCRS

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7166/29-4-1946

Keywords:

modularity, innovation management, process innovation, structural equation modelling, automotive industry, modularization strategy

Abstract

This article aims to verify factors that can contribute to the use of modularisation in the Brazilian automotive industry through a survey methodology, using principal component analysis and structural equation modelling by partial least squares as techniques. We found three types of factors appearing as drivers or precursors of a formal strategy of modularisation: the use and knowledge of individual non-integrated aspects of modularisation, such as modular architecture; the introduction of competition differentials focusing mainly on cost reduction and increase in flexibility, quality, and dependability; and the existence of a business environment prone to innovation. The main conclusion is that elements of modularisation in the design and the need to meet customers’ requirements have much more influence in stimulating a formal, articulated modularisation strategy than a business environment prone to innovation.

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Published

2018-12-10

How to Cite

Sellitto, M. A., Nunes, F. L., & Vallladares, D. R. F. (2018). FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO THE USE OF MODULARISATION IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY: A SURVEY IN BRAZIL. The South African Journal of Industrial Engineering, 29(4), 33–44. https://doi.org/10.7166/29-4-1946

Issue

Vol. 29 No. 4 (2018)

Section

General Articles

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