Designing Modular and Integrative Systems

Abstract

Abstract This paper describes a method that allows us to enhance our understanding of the difference between designing modular systems and integrative systems. Modular systems are those whose interfaces are well defined and shared with only a few other systems. Integrative systems are those whose interfaces may be more complex and shared across the product. Our approach is illustrated by analyzing the development of a large commercial aircraft engine. We document both the product’s design interfaces and the technical interactions between design teams. We found statistically significant differences in the ways modular and integrative design teams handle design interfaces. We focus our analysis on studying the effects due to organizational and system boundaries, and to the existence of various types of design interfaces. By identifying modular and integrative systems and by understanding the differences in designing those systems, development organizations can improve the integration process for complex designs.