DTU ProjectLab - User contributions [en-gb]

Talk:Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-29T13:31:57Z

Ana:

'''Mette:'''

I like this topic, however, I suggest you to make if clearly what you want to focus on with 'modularity' in this article and where the 'black-boxing' comes in. Remember to keep in mind the structure of a "method article".

'''S112910''':

The author gives a good introduction to the subject and clearly states why it was chosen and why it is relevant to project, program and portfolio management.

The article seems to be of ''Type 1: Explanation and Illustration of a method'', since it mainly explains the method and does not include any case study, therefore it is recommended that the author stick to the suggested structure for "method" articles, mainly to get a read thread throughout the article.

There are some minor issues with the grammar but the language of the text is overall fluent and understandable.

A lot of terms are used throughout the article. For those reading the article who are not familiar with project, program and portfolio management and issues related to this matter, it could be a good idea to give a short definition of the used terms, an example of this could be “Product family architectures” which is mentioned in the article.

The “Design Structured Matrix” as a method for decomposing a product into standard designs, modules or platform is a good figure but it should be further explained and elaborated on since it stands kind of alone and it makes no sence to those who are not familiar with it. It would also be a good idea to equip your figures with a concise figure text and a reference.

There are two references in the “Annotated bibliography”, but they are not referenced in the text itself to indicate where exactly you have used them. How to do this can be found in the main page of the course at the bottom.

In the section “Modular Function deployment” you could use bullet points for the 5 tools.

The article does seem to be less than the 3000 words required for this task. However there are some under headings at the end of the article that seems to be very shortly mentioned that could be further elaborated on to fill out the article a littel more.

'''Reviewer 2: S131882'''

1. The topic is strongly related with Project, Program and Porfolio management. That make the article really useful for practitioners that have to deal with this kind of issues.

2. The text is written without major spelling and grammatical errors and it's understandable. The introduction is really helpful to let the reader know what the article will be about.

3. It is nice to know about the "Design structured matrix". However, people not familiar with the topic would appreciate a brief explanation how exactly works.

4. All the parts of the article can be easily understood, but it would be nice to have read threat.

5. The text has a clear division, but it should be formatted properly by following the guidelines for articles type 1.

6. It is nice to have some reference, but they should not be confused with the annotated bibliography. While the reference are the sources of your study, the annotated bibliography aims to suggest further reading for the lector. The annotated bibliography must go with a brief explanation of why it is recommended. Moreover, I think that it would be nice to state where you use the references in the text.

7. It really helps to have some images that make easier to understand the text. However, I would suggest you to mind its copyright. Therefore, state the source and, if necessary, the changes you have made.

8. Although Wikipedia is a good website to start with, you should consider to gather information from sources with a higher quality. Maybe you could consider some articles from DTU find it has the one that I found: ''Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management'' (http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515)

To sum up, the topic seems to have a great potential. I think that if you work on the article a bit more the end result will be great!

'''Reviewer username: s103128 (Martin Larsen) – Reviewer 1'''

Hello Author of Modularity and Black-boxing. I assume that your article is still a work in progress in this review. When that is said, I think you have the foundation for a great and interesting article!

-Great introduction to both modularity and black-boxing. As a reader with little knowledge about these topics, I feel that I already understand the subject much better. It also inspires me to continue reading!

-Nice figures, which supports the text and topic really well. Remember that you can assign figure numbers and add figure text – it will also make it easier to make references to the figures in the text

-I like the structure and headlines of your article. I feel it will cover the subject well. I would suggest that you consider a “limitation” paragraph, as allows you to reflect critically on the topic.

-It is clear to me that the article follows the “method” approach. Remember to keep the guidelines for such an article in mind, but I think you can manage to follow them with the headlines you have at the moment.
-I miss a link between the two main topics, why have you chosen to write about both of them? Or at least it is not clear to me why you have.

-I would suggest that you remove the very first part of your abstract, and try to catch the reader. Everyone on this site knows the course! Just do as you do in your introduction, much more interesting start if you ask me!

-If you don’t know where to put the focus in the article, I would suggest the “Techniques” part. It is a method article after all. The readers needs information about the subject, which you partly give (it could be a bit more detailed). But the reader also needs to know how to use those tools!
-Your language is in general fine, with minor mistakes. But hey, who doesn’t have minor mistakes at this point? However, sometimes I feel you use VERY short sentences, and sometimes several of them in a row. Try to balance them, and maybe mix longer and shorter sentences (in sequence) for momentum.

-Overall, I think you are on the right track with your article. But I must also admit that it really needs more content. But if you fill out the paragraphs you have, you should be fine. I would like to see some more references, and not just Wikipedia articles! It will also be easier to write an annotated bibliography for non-wikipedia sources.

Good luck with your article, /Martin

'''Author feedback to reviewers'''

* Reviewer 1:
Martin gave a really good feedback. Your assumption about my article was still work in progress was right, and your comments served me as inspiration in order to include or exclude some content.
According to your comment about the figures I really had a hard time with the images, it was not really working for me, I actually had a broken link that couldn't fix. Thank you anyway for your comment since now I am very interested in learning how to do it.
I didn't remove the first part as you suggested since other reviewers seemed to like it.
I took your advice about focusing the article in the techniques and I really think that it is now much more catching.

* Reviewer 2:
S131882 provided a good feedback, with some interesting ideas as implement an explanation for the DSM which I finally included as a techinque in the article.
I really apreciated the explanation you gave me about bibliography I was a bit lost in this matter, and now everything seems to make more sense for me.
Finally I would like to thank you for give me that source, it was really nice of you to provide an article to get information and inspiration.

*Reviewer 3:

S112910 gave a good feedback that allow me to change the point of view of the article.
He/she suggested to implement an explanation for the DSM and I did it since I think it was enriching for this topic as much as other techniques.
I liked the idea about adding some definitions since there are people that is not familiar with the topic.
Thanks for your feedback, it served me to complete my article.

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:22:29Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

Complexity is an obstacle ever present in any business. Managing complex systems is therefore a core competency to successfully run any business.
This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small black boxes that can be easily handled. It means to decouple processes and actions to face many small tasks instead of a really big one, what can be hard to manage or even picture it in the managers’ mind.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:

* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bbxx.jpg]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

Below it can be watch a tutorial video about that easily explain matrixes and how to work with them and learn to read them.

{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwfNsaKcRFU}}

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:19:08Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

Complexity is an obstacle ever present in any business. Managing complex systems is therefore a core competency to successfully run any business.
This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small black boxes that can be easily handled. It means to decouple processes and actions to face many small tasks instead of a really big one, what can be hard to manage or even picture it in the managers’ mind.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:

* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:blackb.jpg]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

Below it can be watch a tutorial video about that easily explain matrixes and how to work with them and learn to read them.

{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwfNsaKcRFU}}

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:18:58Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

Complexity is an obstacle ever present in any business. Managing complex systems is therefore a core competency to successfully run any business.
This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small black boxes that can be easily handled. It means to decouple processes and actions to face many small tasks instead of a really big one, what can be hard to manage or even picture it in the managers’ mind.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:

* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:blackb.pjg]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

Below it can be watch a tutorial video about that easily explain matrixes and how to work with them and learn to read them.

{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwfNsaKcRFU}}

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:17:36Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

Complexity is an obstacle ever present in any business. Managing complex systems is therefore a core competency to successfully run any business.
This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small black boxes that can be easily handled. It means to decouple processes and actions to face many small tasks instead of a really big one, what can be hard to manage or even picture it in the managers’ mind.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:

* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bbx.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

Below it can be watch a tutorial video about that easily explain matrixes and how to work with them and learn to read them.

{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwfNsaKcRFU}}

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:16:39Z

Ana:

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:16:12Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

Complexity is an obstacle ever present in any business. Managing complex systems is therefore a core competency to successfully run any business.
This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small black boxes that can be easily handled. It means to decouple processes and actions to face many small tasks instead of a really big one, what can be hard to manage or even picture it in the managers’ mind.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:

* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:hojas.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

Below it can be watch a tutorial video about that easily explain matrixes and how to work with them and learn to read them.

{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwfNsaKcRFU}}

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:15:58Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

Complexity is an obstacle ever present in any business. Managing complex systems is therefore a core competency to successfully run any business.
This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small black boxes that can be easily handled. It means to decouple processes and actions to face many small tasks instead of a really big one, what can be hard to manage or even picture it in the managers’ mind.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:

* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bbx.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

Below it can be watch a tutorial video about that easily explain matrixes and how to work with them and learn to read them.

{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwfNsaKcRFU}}

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:15:42Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

Complexity is an obstacle ever present in any business. Managing complex systems is therefore a core competency to successfully run any business.
This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small black boxes that can be easily handled. It means to decouple processes and actions to face many small tasks instead of a really big one, what can be hard to manage or even picture it in the managers’ mind.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:

* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bbxx.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

Below it can be watch a tutorial video about that easily explain matrixes and how to work with them and learn to read them.

{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwfNsaKcRFU}}

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:15:28Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

Complexity is an obstacle ever present in any business. Managing complex systems is therefore a core competency to successfully run any business.
This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small black boxes that can be easily handled. It means to decouple processes and actions to face many small tasks instead of a really big one, what can be hard to manage or even picture it in the managers’ mind.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:

* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bbxx.png|thumb|caption]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

Below it can be watch a tutorial video about that easily explain matrixes and how to work with them and learn to read them.

{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwfNsaKcRFU}}

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:15:00Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

Complexity is an obstacle ever present in any business. Managing complex systems is therefore a core competency to successfully run any business.
This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small black boxes that can be easily handled. It means to decouple processes and actions to face many small tasks instead of a really big one, what can be hard to manage or even picture it in the managers’ mind.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:

* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bb.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

Below it can be watch a tutorial video about that easily explain matrixes and how to work with them and learn to read them.

{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwfNsaKcRFU}}

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:14:45Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

Complexity is an obstacle ever present in any business. Managing complex systems is therefore a core competency to successfully run any business.
This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small black boxes that can be easily handled. It means to decouple processes and actions to face many small tasks instead of a really big one, what can be hard to manage or even picture it in the managers’ mind.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:

* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bb.jpg]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

Below it can be watch a tutorial video about that easily explain matrixes and how to work with them and learn to read them.

{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwfNsaKcRFU}}

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:13:39Z

Ana:

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:10:37Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

Complexity is an obstacle ever present in any business. Managing complex systems is therefore a core competency to successfully run any business.
This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small black boxes that can be easily handled. It means to decouple processes and actions to face many small tasks instead of a really big one, what can be hard to manage or even picture it in the managers’ mind.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:

* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bbxx.jpg]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

Below it can be watch a tutorial video about that easily explain matrixes and how to work with them and learn to read them
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwfNsaKcRFU]

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:03:57Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

Complexity is an obstacle ever present in any business. Managing complex systems is therefore a core competency to successfully run any business.
This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small black boxes that can be easily handled. It means to decouple processes and actions to face many small tasks instead of a really big one, what can be hard to manage or even picture it in the managers’ mind.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:

* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bbxx.jpg]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:03:20Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bbxx.jpg]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:03:09Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bbxx.jpg]]
In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:01:23Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bbxx.jpg]]In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

File:Bbxx.JPG

2015-09-28T19:01:12Z

Ana:

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T19:00:11Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.
[[File:bbx.png|200px|thumb|left|alt text]]

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:59:59Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.
[[File:hojas.png|200px|thumb|left|alt text]]

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:59:12Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.
[[File:File.png|200px|thumb|left|alt text]]

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:57:50Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.
[[File:hojas.png]]

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:57:19Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:hojas.png]]
In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:56:14Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:hojas.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:55:33Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:hojas.png]]
In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:55:17Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:hojas.png|thumb]]
In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:54:50Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:hojas.png|thumb|caption]]
In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

File:Bbx.PNG

2015-09-28T18:51:32Z

Ana:

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:50:22Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png|thumb|caption]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

[[File:bbx.png|thumb|caption]]
In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:46:58Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

(IMAGEN DE DIAPOS)

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:46:47Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

(IMAGEN DE DIAPOS)

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:46:14Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

[[File:gfc.jpg|thumb|caption]]

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

(IMAGEN DE DIAPOS)

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:45:29Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

[[File:gfc.jpg|frameless|caption]]

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

(IMAGEN DE DIAPOS)

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:44:49Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

[[File:gfc.jpg|frameless|border|caption]]

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

(IMAGEN DE DIAPOS)

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:43:13Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

[[File:gfc.jpg]]

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

(IMAGEN DE DIAPOS)

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

File:Gfc.jpg

2015-09-28T18:42:38Z

Ana:

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-28T18:36:52Z

Ana:

'''Abstract'''

This article is part from the course 42433 – Advanced Engineering Project, Program and Portfolio Management E15 at DTU. This is an individual assignment and the reason why this topic has been selected is because of the personal interest of the author on it.
To allow success in a company, project or program it is important to learn how to transform complex systems (meaning processes, concepts, architectures, etc.), in small boxes that can be easily handled.
The structure of this article is defined by the following sections:
* '''Modularity in different areas''': Within the field of engineering modularity can be used in many different areas, this article will focus on three main areas of interest: product architecture, portfolio management and project management, and how they build each other.
*'''Application''': Here it will be addressed how to take to due modularity and two techniques will be described (black-boxing, DSMand MFD)
*'''Limitations''': This final section will discuss the limitations of this concept applied to the areas described in the article

=Big Idea=
Modularity refers to how components relate. It consist on coupling and decoupling, connect and disconnect the different parts and features of a product. Nowadays simplifying complexity is not just about reducing it while we are, at the same time amplifying variety, because customers always want it customized and, of course, faster, cheaper and better. This is where the challenge begins. Below this paragraph there is a viral diagram that express how it cannot be pursued it the three areas or it will fail.

(IMAGE)

The term modularity is used in a wide range of fields within management. It means that systems can be decomposed into subsystems that can be matched in many different configurations. Those subsystems are components, and they have the ability to interact, connect or exchange variety of resources. To make this possible it needs to be defined a standard interface. Imagine modules as puzzle pieces and the interface the puzzle panel.
In Industrial design, modularity refers to an engineering technique that builds larger systems by combining smaller subsystems. In manufacturing, modularity refers to the use of exchangeable parts or options in the fabrication of an object.
To improve the business value and the chances of success in an organization it should grow in three areas. It a company is better in product leadership and goes the first to the market it will be the one who set the price and have in this way a strong position with possible competitors. To shape your product or service to fulfill customer’s needs is called customer intimacy. The last one is operational excellence, which means that the way the company is doing it is efficient, minimizing waste, being the first in time to market and managing resources allowing lower costs increasing the revenue.
Here modules are defined within these three areas, then there are some groups of modules that can be optimized based in the strategic intention of group in these three areas defining the boundaries and connections between modules and areas.

=Modularity in different fields=
==Modularity in product architecture==
Every product architecture is based in modularity. A product is intentionally decomposed into a system of functionally coherent building blocks. Each module provides a unique function within the product architecture. Modularity is the key for managing complexity and the more complexity there is in a product the more useful will be the use of modules or black-boxes. Each module have its own strategy within the company strategy such us fulfill customer’s need or reducing manufacturing costs.
According to businessdictionary.com, product family is defined as Group of products derived from a common product platform. These goods or services use similar or same production processes, have similar physical characteristics, and may share customer segments, distribution channels, pricing methods, promotional campaigns, and other elements of the marketing mix. Products comprising a family are usually priced and discounted as a package. Several product families make up a product portfolio. Also called product group or product line.
Product family architectures are crucial in the development of new products within a family and this architecture is based in a shared platform that allows the creation and exchange of some of the modules.
A good modularization allows a wide range of products within the same product family, which means customization and optimization. This variety will describe how the customer’s needs are fulfill in different areas and niches.
Optimization in means of reducing the cost of manufacturing and time to market. By improving processes and sharing a common language.
Strategic modularization is based in a shared platform and the definition on the modules of the product. Those modules can be defined by function or assembly. This is a strategy since it allows a better approach to portfolio management within a company. If the modules are well defined and they share resources and physical interfaces it becomes much easier to make them relate to create a wide range of variety without increasing cost (processes and materials) and time to market. To decide the future architecture of a product it can be helpful to think on the module drives described by Erixon 1998. The modular function development (MFD) is a good approach for the identification of those modules having the starting point in the customer requirements and the module drivers.
A way to decompose a product into standard designs, modules or platforms is the “Design Structure Matrix” which can be seen in the picture.

[[File:sdm.png]]

The Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is a simple tool to perform both the analysis and the management of complex systems. It enables the user to model, visualize, and analyze the dependencies among the entities of any system and derive suggestions for the improvement or synthesis of a system. Such a system can be for example a product architecture or an engineering design process; also e.g. the organization of an enterprise or a market can take shape as a complex system and often merit a closer look into their structure.

==Modularity in portfolio management==
The modularization is also applied in a superior level, at portfolio management.
This modularization allows the creation of product families in a portfolio by simplifying processes and saving materials, which also means optimization in means of money, time to release the product and customization.
A company’s portfolio is classified in families and subfamilies decoupling systems and processes. This aids the production and help to manage easier projects within a company.

==Modularity in Project management==
This kind of modularity is also called strategic modularity. Regarding modularity of projects it allows the internal design strategy by shorting the time to learn and making the process more efficient that could be basis for a competitive advantage.

=Application=
Summing up the previous section, modularization is a strategic behavior that allows managing complex systems and process by decoupling them. But, how can we do it? There are some techniques that can be applied to simplify the way we manage processes and systems, here three will be described: Black boxing, the design structure matrix and the modular function development.

==Blackboxing==
The term black-box engineering is derived from the fact that the component in question appears as a black box, what means that to see the overall system it is not necessary to have it all. It consist in making groups of the process that are similar in time, shape or resources and put it in a black box and show how they relates. If it is necessary a black box can be open and you can look what there is inside, maybe many systems or more black boxes. Therefore the term black box and the action black boxing can be applied to any field. In this case this article will use it in relation to business management.

[[File:bb.png]]

In this strategy the inquiry is focused upon a thing that has no immediately apparent characteristics and therefore has only factors for consideration held within itself hidden from immediate observation, and this is an intended feature. To release the weight of too much information and focus in the things that maters in every moment. The observer is assumed to be ignorant in the first instance as the majority of the available data is been keeping in an inner situation inside some black box away from facile investigations. These black boxes can contain anything within the system such as processes, parts, algorithms, relations between other boxes or even more boxes. In the following figure it can be seeing how black boxing relates boxes and helps to visually manage the information to be aware of what it is needed and not to be disturbed by anything else.
Once we face a black box we can decide if it is not relevant for the entire system or if we need to open and take a look inside broadening our boundaries and our scope. This needs to be defined in advance since not every department should be managing the same information since they don’t share the same point of view in the project.

(IMAGEN DE DIAPOS)

==Design Strategy Matrix (DSM)==
This Design Structure Matrix is also known as:
* The Dependency Structure Matrix
* The Problem Solving Matrix
* Design Precedence Matrix

As a tool for system analysis, DSM provides a compact and clear representation of a complex system and a capture method for the interactions/interdependencies/ interfaces between system elements (i.e. sub-systems and modules).
As a management tool, DSM most commonly applied in project management, and it provides a project representation that allows for feedback and cyclic task dependencies. This is extremely important since most engineering applications exhibit such a cyclic property. As such, this representation often results in an improved and more realistic execution schedule for the corresponding design activities.
There are several tools as templates and software that are designed to aid the manager and the team to develop the best strategy for the business. For example Antares DSM is a software tool that allow the manipulation of all types of DSMs and make possible the creation of new models. This software have also the possibility to execute and simulate functions to optimize the DSM projects.

==Modular Function deployment==
Modular function deployment is a structured approach for modularization of products based on Erixon 1998 and module drivers. This approach consist of 5 tools linked together and the objective is to identify the different modules of a given product.
Steps to follow:
1* Identification of the customers’ requirements described a QFD-matrix.
2* Identify functions and corresponding technical solutions.
3* Analyze technical solutions regarding their reasons for being modules. The output here is module candidates.
4* Analyze modules according to their interfaces, lead times, cost, etc.
5* Made specifications for each module.

=Limitations=
By taking a brief and very visual look into the section called modularity in different fields of this article, it is clear that the first subsection we explored (modularity in product architecture) was much deeper explained than the rest (modularity in portfolio management and modularity in project management) that are clearly much more shorter, this is because this article has been completed through the application of black boxing, being one section into another and building each other. Therefore modularity in product architecture was explained in a wide basis and then the relation with the upper fields within a company or organization.
The limitations of this practice is the practice as such, since by symplifying it is possible that we miss something in the meanwhile

=Annotated bibliography=

* http://www.dsmweb.org/ - This is a web I strongly recommend if the reader is interested in how the DSM works. This web have a large collection of tools such as professional software. There is an important network of researchers in this area.
* Modular management (YouTube channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHU0MFRozXGpcV31PKxDjw , This YouTube channel is much recommended to get to know the principles of modular management in a simple basis. It is easy to follow and understand, moreover there are some examples that engage the audience.

=References=

* Project Management Case Study: http://vanderweil.com/resources/2010Hallahan.pdf.pdf
* Definition of Black Box: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_box
* Industrial use of DSM (inspiration): http://www.dsmweb.org/en/understand-dsm/industrial-use-of-dsm/team-composition.html
* Modular Product Architecture definition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bf2f8Ezr6-Y
* Simplifying complexity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSmGb3lE3Mw
* Edwin D. Marion and Eric J. Riddleberger (1991). Modular project management: http://findit.dtu.dk/en/catalog/15627515 / http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.proxy.findit.dtu.dk/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6772421&tag=1
* Oehmen, J. et al 2015
* Developing productc families based on architecture, Ulf Harlou

Talk:Rational Unified Process (RUP)

2015-09-22T20:41:48Z

Ana:

Anna: I like the topic idea, remember to keep in mind that you need to showcase how this tool is relevant/useful for project/portfolio/program management.

===Reviewer 1, Damien===
The article has been accessed the 22/09/2015 at 4 p.m.

*Overall overview.
The presentation and the overall writing is very clear and clean. The article seems to be well organised and structured. It is also completed, more than 3000 words. Even without any knowledge of the subject, it becomes accessible through the article.

*Formal aspect.
No mistakes noticed, the vocabulary is very precise and the formal aspect of the Wiki seems to me perfectly mastered. The references and the links inside the article are well used in order to explain technical aspect through other pages.

*Schemas and photos
They are clearly identified and used in harmony within the text. Maybe more pictures should be introduced in order to break the monotony of the article.

*Links, connections and comprehension.
The article describes the subject in a cascade way, each part is clearly explained in a fall down structure leading to the use in management. So the choice structure makes perfect sense to me.

However, despite the great efficiency in term of explanation, the style can be quite repetitive in terms of reading. It may be corrected by introducing some personal comment, or practical example from times to times and when possible.

*Bibliography
The references seem to be very serious one.

However 4 references isn’t enough, and there is no explanation (yet) considering how each reference is relevant regarding the topic.

*Conclusion and advices:
From my very own point of view the subject is perfectly explained and presented. However I personally think that it may help to consider some practical examples of the use of the RUP, even if oversimplification is needed. It would make the article more alive in a way (possibility to introduce other picture etc.). The article described the use of RUP in management but doesn’t provide examples.

I understand the subject is complex and need a complete description in order to be fully understandable to the reader. Reducing the description or replacing some parts by concrete examples could still help for the comprehension.

The actual formal presentation is however perfectly acceptable.

‘’’Ana – Reviewer 2’’’
*I found this an interesting topic I did not know nothing about before. I really liked the start, it is good to have a definition when you are about to discover a new subject.

As I was blind in this matter it was a bit hard for me to read, there is “a lot of meat in that bone” but I have to admit that it is well structured event though it is quite long for the amount of information, it goes into much detail. I find useful the use of bullet points.

*Figures are useful and well use, they are referred in the text what make easier to follow the explanation.
The conclusion is brief and sums up the content of the article.

*I would have like to have links in the reference list to consult in case of doubts.

*I would have like to have examples of use in this article to make it easier to follow, I personally learn better with a “background story”, it seems more coherent for me in a complex topic like this.

*To conclude my feedback I have to say that this article looks accurate and good for expand knowledge.

Talk:Game theory in project management

2015-09-22T20:22:36Z

Ana:

'''Josef:'''

Hello, I really like your idea to look at Game Theory applications in project management. I suggest to make sure you focus on specific examples, so that you do not get "stuck" in a general discussion. It is OK to start with a more general overview, but make sure you bring it down to an "application level" that is relevant for a project manager, and not leave it at a "philosophical" discussion.

'''s112910:'''

The author has picked a subject which is very relevant for project, program and portfolio management.

The author gives a good introduction that immediately got my attention and interest. The subject is properly introduced and it is clearly stated what the purpose of the article is in relation to the subject.

The language of the article is fluent and with no mistakes in the grammar. The content of the article is clear and the author manages to keep a read thread throughout the article even though the suggested structure for "method" articles for this task is not completely followed. The author also has a way of writing that keeps the reader interested. The article consists of relevant figures that are clearly explained and make the article more interesting. However references to the figures are missing. A youtube video is also used in the article to demonstrate an example of game theory from the Olympic games to emphasize a point being made by the author which also makes the article more lively.

At the end of the article the author makes a very good conclusion summing up the most important aspects of the subject.

References are clearly stated at the bottom of the article. Good idea to split them into types of references. It would also be a good idea to put the references in the text as well so the reader is able to clearly read from the text what the source is. At the bottom of the main page for this course you can find information on how to do this.

'''Ana – Reviewer 1'''

I find the topic very interesting and structured, I like the motivation given in the abstract even though it seems complex. The author gives a good introduction to the theme and I find it relevant for students in this course.

The article explains a method and gives few examples with good and developed explanations. To address cases helps the reader to follow the topic.
The grammar and the writing style make easy to follow the article and the sentences are well formulated.

I may would need a more clear explanation for the figures as it was a bit hard for me to relate it with the example.

I think the elements of the article are well formatted (figures and video). The video gives a dynamic view of the topic that aids to catch the reader’s attention.

According to the size of the article I found it a bit long in the beginning but it can be explained because of the examples that I found necessaries to explain the topic.
I liked that there are links to the resources the author has use to elaborate this article, I found it interesting. But it is not explained the content of each link.

The conclusion is well summarized, it addresses the important points.

Talk:Game theory in project management

2015-09-22T20:21:16Z

Ana:

'''Josef:'''

Hello, I really like your idea to look at Game Theory applications in project management. I suggest to make sure you focus on specific examples, so that you do not get "stuck" in a general discussion. It is OK to start with a more general overview, but make sure you bring it down to an "application level" that is relevant for a project manager, and not leave it at a "philosophical" discussion.

'''s112910:'''

The author has picked a subject which is very relevant for project, program and portfolio management.

The author gives a good introduction that immediately got my attention and interest. The subject is properly introduced and it is clearly stated what the purpose of the article is in relation to the subject.

The language of the article is fluent and with no mistakes in the grammar. The content of the article is clear and the author manages to keep a read thread throughout the article even though the suggested structure for "method" articles for this task is not completely followed. The author also has a way of writing that keeps the reader interested. The article consists of relevant figures that are clearly explained and make the article more interesting. However references to the figures are missing. A youtube video is also used in the article to demonstrate an example of game theory from the Olympic games to emphasize a point being made by the author which also makes the article more lively.

At the end of the article the author makes a very good conclusion summing up the most important aspects of the subject.

References are clearly stated at the bottom of the article. Good idea to split them into types of references. It would also be a good idea to put the references in the text as well so the reader is able to clearly read from the text what the source is. At the bottom of the main page for this course you can find information on how to do this.

'''Ana – Reviewer 1'''

I find the topic very interesting and structured, I like the motivation given in the abstract even though it seems complex. The author gives a good introduction to the theme and I find it relevant for students in this course.
The article explains a method and gives few examples with good and developed explanations. To address cases helps the reader to follow the topic.
The grammar and the writing style make easy to follow the article and the sentences are well formulated.
I may would need a more clear explanation for the figures as it was a bit hard for me to relate it with the example.
I think the elements of the article are well formatted (figures and video). The video gives a dynamic view of the topic that aids to catch the reader’s attention.
According to the size of the article I found it a bit long in the beginning but it can be explained because of the examples that I found necessaries to explain the topic.
I liked that there are links to the resources the author has use to elaborate this article, I found it interesting. But it is not explained the content of each link.
The conclusion is well summarized, it addresses the important points.

Talk:Game theory in project management

2015-09-22T20:21:03Z

Ana:

'''Josef:'''

Hello, I really like your idea to look at Game Theory applications in project management. I suggest to make sure you focus on specific examples, so that you do not get "stuck" in a general discussion. It is OK to start with a more general overview, but make sure you bring it down to an "application level" that is relevant for a project manager, and not leave it at a "philosophical" discussion.

'''s112910:'''

The author has picked a subject which is very relevant for project, program and portfolio management.

The author gives a good introduction that immediately got my attention and interest. The subject is properly introduced and it is clearly stated what the purpose of the article is in relation to the subject.

The language of the article is fluent and with no mistakes in the grammar. The content of the article is clear and the author manages to keep a read thread throughout the article even though the suggested structure for "method" articles for this task is not completely followed. The author also has a way of writing that keeps the reader interested. The article consists of relevant figures that are clearly explained and make the article more interesting. However references to the figures are missing. A youtube video is also used in the article to demonstrate an example of game theory from the Olympic games to emphasize a point being made by the author which also makes the article more lively.

At the end of the article the author makes a very good conclusion summing up the most important aspects of the subject.

References are clearly stated at the bottom of the article. Good idea to split them into types of references. It would also be a good idea to put the references in the text as well so the reader is able to clearly read from the text what the source is. At the bottom of the main page for this course you can find information on how to do this.

'''Ana – Reviewer 1'''
I find the topic very interesting and structured, I like the motivation given in the abstract even though it seems complex. The author gives a good introduction to the theme and I find it relevant for students in this course.
The article explains a method and gives few examples with good and developed explanations. To address cases helps the reader to follow the topic.
The grammar and the writing style make easy to follow the article and the sentences are well formulated.
I may would need a more clear explanation for the figures as it was a bit hard for me to relate it with the example.
I think the elements of the article are well formatted (figures and video). The video gives a dynamic view of the topic that aids to catch the reader’s attention.
According to the size of the article I found it a bit long in the beginning but it can be explained because of the examples that I found necessaries to explain the topic.
I liked that there are links to the resources the author has use to elaborate this article, I found it interesting. But it is not explained the content of each link.
The conclusion is well summarized, it addresses the important points.

User:Ana

2015-09-21T10:43:40Z

Ana:

MSc student in the program Design and Innovation

Background: Industrial Design and Product Development engineering

User:Ana

2015-09-21T10:43:32Z

Ana:

MSc student in the program Design and Innovation
Background: Industrial Design and Product Development engineering

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-21T10:41:34Z

Ana:

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-21T10:38:11Z

Ana:

File:Bb.png

2015-09-21T10:37:11Z

Ana:

Modularity and Black-Boxing

2015-09-21T10:35:37Z

Ana:

File:Sdm.png

2015-09-21T10:35:07Z

Ana:

File:DSM-image.jpg

2015-09-21T10:33:26Z

Ana: