Case Study
A Methodology for Identifying Flexible Design Opportunities in Large-Scale Systems
David Allaverdi, Tyson R. Browning
May, 2020
This paper presents a systematic methodology for identifying flexible design opportunities (FDOs) in large-scale systems, with a focus on embedding flexibility early in the design process. By proactively addressing uncertainties, the methodology enables designers to improve life cycle value, enhance adaptability, and reduce long-term costs. Its application is demonstrated in the offshore drilling industry.
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Motivation
Large-scale systems, such as energy or transportation infrastructure, face significant uncertainties in political, market, and environmental conditions. Early integration of flexibility in system design improves operational adaptability and extends life cycle value, minimizing reactive costs during later stages of development. (Abstract, p. 1)
Methodologies
- Flexible Design Opportunities (FDO): “The FDO methodology integrates a five-phase framework and end-to-end matrix-based analysis to identify, generate, and evaluate flexible design concepts (FDCs).” (Section 3, p. 4)
- Design Structure Matrix (DSM): “DSM modeling supports systematic identification of relationships between change drivers, system requirements, and physical objects.” (Section 3.2, p. 7)
Insights
- Proactive Flexibility: “Integrating flexibility early can increase financial performance by 25% while accommodating evolving operational needs.” (Discussion, p. 15)
- Matrix-based Methodologies: “The FDO approach leverages DSM and multi-domain matrices to explore design opportunities systematically.” (Conclusion, p. 22)
Training
Relevant lectures:
- Paradigm change in engineering systems and planning
- How to optimise design and decision-making under uncertainty
- How to manage the design process
