ABSTRACT
In this rapidly changing business environment, Japanese ¨rms have put much emphasis on e†ective product life cycle management (PLM) for sustainable competitive advantage in the global market. In this chapter we present a research model of product life cycle management that depicts the essential elements of PLM in terms of processes and outcomes. Four selected case studies of large Japanese ¨rms examine the business practices that support their global market strategy through speci¨c PLM practices, which include data exchanges, design knowledge management, supplier integration, and BOM (bill of materials) design. Ÿese case studies suggest that PLM practices are di†erently implemented according to strategic focus, product, and market characteristics. Lessons from the case studies are discussed as well.
