Product-service systems: using an existing concept as a new approach to sustainability. (2001)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Manzini, Ezio; Vezzoli, Carlo; Clark, Garrette
• Is Part Of: Journal of design research. Volume 1:Number 2(2001)
• Page Start: 27
• Page End: 40
• Publication Date: 2001
• Subjects: product service systems -- PSS -- sustainable consumption -- dematerialization -- product redesign -- service economy -- rebound effects; Design -- Human factors -- Periodicals; Design -- Methodology -- Periodicals; Design, Industrial -- Periodicals; 745.405
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1748-3050

Abstract

Product Service Systems (PS systems), though not new, are relatively new to be used as an approach to reach sustainability. This perspective of PS systems is presented. A PS system can be defined as a business innovation strategy offering a marketable mix of products and services jointly capable of fulfilling a client's needs and/or wants - with higher added value and a smaller environmental impact as compared to an existing system or product. A major element of a PS system is that a consumer's need is met by selling utility instead of providing a product. In essence the right of product ownership is shifted from a client to the producer or service provider. PS systems are reviewed in light of other environmental managementstrategies, and they are described in general. Company examples illustrate the potential benefits and motivations for a company to consider a shift to PS systems. The examples are classified in three categories: 1) Services providing value added to product: in which a company can sell additional services, such as a warrantee, to guarantee functionality and/or durability of a product which is owned by the consumer. 2) Services providing final results: in which a company can offer a customised mix of services, as a substitute for the purchasing and use of single products providing of a specific final result with a low-level of client participation; and 3) Services providing enabling platforms: in which a company can offer access to products, tools, opportunities or capabilities (platforms) that enable clients to get the results they want. Furthermore, it is discussed how PS systems are applicable in developing countries, and how PS systems, as an innovation strategy can present an opportunity to facilitate the process of industrialisation with less environmental impact, by jumping over or by passing the stage characterised by individual consumption/ownership of mass-produced goods towards the more advanced service-economy.