A Framework to Evaluate the Benefits of Configuration Management in the Aerospace Industry

This thesis has been written to deliver a contribution to knowledge in the field of measuring the value of Configuration Management (CM). CM is a management method that ensures that the customer receives the product according to his requirements and can operate it according to the specification and functional as well as physical attributes over the entire life cycle. This study will bridge the knowledge gap which exists within this field of study and will provide both theoretical insights for academics and the general research community, as well as practical knowledge for practitioners working within the Aerospace Industry. The methodology used in the study is the constructivist approach. In order to meet the research aims and objectives an exploratory, qualitative data collection process has been adopted using semi-structured interviews. A sample size of thirteen semi structured interviews were undertaken with the experts in Configuration Management of several Aerospace Companies. The main purpose of the thesis was to explore important issues related to the measuring process and optimisation of Configuration Management. A thematic approach was used to analyse the data. From the results, a theoretical framework has been created to show the possibilities of measuring the value of CM, with a view to convincing senior management of the usefulness and practical implications of this discipline. It has been shown that totally new business models are possible through the appropriate use of CM. The existing measuring systems have more or less elaborate metrics. The central result of the work is that not every company needs the same degree of CM, rather a weighting is necessary in the application of CM, which has to be carried out primarily on the basis of the three themes complexity, individualization and potential. A certain level of input from CM application does not lead to the same level of output for every company. It is ensured that the result is relevant for the development potential of the investigated company and there is concrete economic significance for the future