ABSTRACT
The simplest definition of Concurrent Engineering (CE) is the simultaneous development of product and process. The information technology and the structured methodology foundation required to reshape the development process into a CE process was emerging. In the normal context of CE, collaboration is usually expressed in terms of teams or teamwork. In establishing a CE environment, the infrastructure that drives the behavioral change towards collaborative activities is a key. Information Technology in the design process is usually discussed as computer-aided design and computer-aided engineering. Additionally and possibly more importantly, information technology has become the foundation enabler that allows CE to happen. Process in CE involves both the broader level of the full development cycle, as well as the detailed level of specific processes and specific design methodologies. The fundamental thought process of CE is a process of convergence, where large scale collaborative thinking leads to innovative ideas, market understanding, and product and process knowledge.
