Goal-Oriented Data Collection Framework in Configuration Projects

Abstract

This article proposes a systematic framework for data collection when executing Product Configuration System (PCS) projects. Since the data collection in PCS is one of the most time-consuming tasks, a systematic framework to handle and manage the large amount of complex data in the early stages of the PCS project is needed. The framework was developed based on the current literature in the field and revised during testing at a case company. The framework has proven to provide a structural approach for data collection, which saved the company both time and money in the initial phases of the PCS project. The framework consists of five steps, which are: establishing a goal and the methods for stakeholder analysis, categorize and group the data collection, prioritizing of products and functionalities, collection and validation of the data by domain experts, and finally analysis, documentation, and maintenance in the future.