Procedure for identifying factors and interfaces that are critical in a sustainable product

Abstract

Goal: To test a systematic procedure for identifying critical factors and interfaces among the stakeholders involved with the lifecycle of a sustainable product, with a view to make design prioritizations. Design/Methodology/Approach: A qualitative-quantitative approach including interviews and requirements analysis led to the definition of relationships in network graphical representations. Stakeholders from hygiene and cleaning products (HCP) manufacturing and consumption segment were interviewed in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Results: Factors and interfaces that are critical for a sustainable system were highlighted by the procedure and they include: human resources training, research funding, waste collection systems, and people's behavior towards product discarding. Limitations of investigation: This is an exploratory study performed in a single segment: the hygiene and cleaning products (HCP). Practical implications: The understanding of the behavior of professionals in the hygienic product-manufacturing segment. Originality/value: To explore a new way for identification of critical elements in a sustainable network system.