A computational framework for supporting innovation in product development through collaboration and simulation

Abstract

This paper deals with the development of a computational framework that aims to facilitate innovative endeavours during product development. A problem analysis carried out revealed that both stakeholder collaboration and artefact simulation are considered important for supporting innovation, the first through the availability of more ideas and the latter for analysing the feasibility of these ideas prior to their implementation in practice. However, it was observed that the use of collaboration tools and simulation tools is still lacking in practice mainly due to lack of awareness or perceived lack of necessity. This research thus aims to develop a framework that helps support innovation in product development through the use of these tools. From the preliminary evaluation of the solution developed, it was found that the portal and its underlying framework are indeed useful for supporting innovation.