Mapping challenges and methodologies for providing PSS - a thematic and descriptive analysis

Product service systems (PSS) are seen as a viable option for enhancing the competitiveness of organizations that produce stand-alone products and services. Although there are various opportunities associated with PSS, research evidence shows that product manufacturers face challenges in successfully deploying PSS strategies. While the methods addressing PSS challenges have attracted much interest from both academia and practice, the literature provides limited knowledge about PSS development methods and challenges related to specific assets or products. This limitation hinders the development of successful strategies for both developing products to PSS and converting existing products to PSS. This study clarifies the contribution of the literature by proposing a mapping of PSS development methods capable of tackling the PSS business models that offer challenges. The mapping of challenges and methods presented can support organisations in their strategic decision-making about providing PSS, thus mitigating risks and improving business performance. Finally, analysing the extension of this coverage makes it possible to understand the method’s limitations and determine opportunities for further research. A specific focus is placed on the asset or product development industry.