Cost Optimization Methods

Course content

• Cost optimization methods in the design process
• Recommendations for action and criteria in make or buy decision-making processes
• Value management as a joint contribution of purchasing and technology for cost optimization
• Cost influenceability methods in the product development process
• Accompanying cost management in construction
• Methods of function-oriented and cost-focused product development
• Method presentation using an example from industrial practice

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, students are able to:

• Present cost optimization methods in the design process
• Prepare recommendations for "Make or Buy" decision-making processes
• Design value management methods as a joint contribution of purchasing and technology for cost optimization
• Represent ways of influencing costs in the product development process
• Design approaches for accompanying cost management in construction
• Develop concepts for function-oriented and cost-focused product development

Recommended or required reading and other learning resources / tools

Literature:
Lecture notes; handouts; F. Balsliemke: Kostenorientierte Wertstromplanung: Prozessoptimierung in Produktion und Logistik; M. Pfeffer: Bewertung von Wertströmen: Kosten-Nutzen-Betrachtung von Optimierungsszenarien; W. Engeln: Produktentwicklung: Herausforderungen, Organisation, Prozesse, Methoden und Projekte; M. Höbig, T. Nehls, S. Rieper: Praxis der Kalkulation und Kostenoptimierung: Der Beipackzettel zu Risiken und Nebenwirkungen; T. Lingohr, M. Kruschel: Best Practices im Value Management; J. O. Fischer: Kostenbewusstes Konstruieren; VDI-Gesellschaft: Wertanalyse - das Tool im Value Management; I. Chalkiadakis: New Product Development with the use of Quality Function Deployment;

Mode of delivery

Lectures and tutorials

Prerequisites and co-requisites

Costing in Engineering and Production, Supply Chain Management, Production KPI and Controlling, Total Cost of Ownership, Design for Manufacturing and Assembly, Product Requirements Engineering

Assessment methods and criteria

Written and/or oral exams