Product Service Systems Value Chain Configuration – A Simulation Based Approach

Abstract : This paper proposes a framework relying on a combination of a methodological approach with a modelling and simulation platform. The methodological approach offers generic tools to collect and analyze the key information required to understand a PSS industrial context. Modelling and simulation areconcerned with the specification and evaluation of alternative PSS value-chain configurations. A case studyin the field of sludge treatment is used to illustrate the proposed approach. This case study points out the main performance drivers for the different types of actor involved in the PSS. The novelty of the paper is twofold: i) it provides a structural and methodological support to build and evaluate different value-chain configurations aiming at deliver PSS solutions, and ii) it gives a preliminary analysis of the performance drivers of an innovative activity related to sludge treatment.