A Parametric Approach for IT Use and Flexible Design in Small and Medium Size Enterprises

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the advantages of applying a parametric design approach on the devise and manufacture of new products in small and medium size enterprises (SME). Market drivers for innovation have posed a significant challenge in most SME: while product life cycle times are shortening, the need for more customised products is increasing. Technology has become a major tool to address this challenge. However, SME (particularly in developing countries) can not always afford the required budget for technology adoption not to mention the lack of skilled human resources. As such, this paper contains a developed framework and software applications that were developed and put into practice in a Mexican SME, manufacturer of office furniture. As a result, product quotations, specifications and technical drawings are generated in a fraction of time, as compared to traditional design processes. This framework can easily be extended to other SMEs.