Workshop10

Tools and methods

Use the tools!

The proper implementation of tools and methods is indispensable when working with ecodesign. Currently, several different tools and methods are available for the implementation of ecodesign, ranging from quantitative to qualitative tools, from complex to simple tools, and from expensive to inexpensive tools.

Several ecodesign activities can be supported by tools: evaluation of environmental performance of products and services; identification of legislation and standards; identification of customers' and stakedolders' requirements; identification of guidelines for product design; integration of ecodesign into the strategic decision making process; etc.

Due to the high variety of available tools and methods for ecodesign, a consistent selection process that carefully considers the company needs and current maturity in ecodesign implementation is essential. Furthermore, companies usually need to undergo a customization process of the selected methods/tools to ensure alignment with their current development processes and culture.

The proper implementation of the tools into the current processes and proper training of the employees directly and indirectly involved with the tool are key issues to ensure long-term adoption, bringing value to the organization.

You will find a lot of good advice and experience, personally referred by experienced specialists in two short video clips. The advice is summarized in a "key points" list and also links to appropriate further reference. 

Quick guidance

1. Do you use ecodesign tools and methods to support product development? There is a variety of ecodesign tools and methods that can support your activities. Check out the references to have an overview of existing ecodesign tools and methods.

2. Do you know how to decide which methods and tools are the most suitable for your company? The choice of which tools and methods to use can be difficult, due to the very large number of tools available. Check out the references to learn how to select the most suitable methods and tools.

3. Do you customize the methods and tools selected to your company's specific needs? It is very important to customize existing methods and tools to your needs. Check out on the references alternative ways to make it!

4. Do you train your employees on the best way to apply the methods and tools? Prepare employees in good time is a very clever idea: prepare guides, templates, frameworks and get started!

Learn more

Check out best practices on the right side of the page:

  • Key points
  • 2 videos from industrial experts 
  • Knowledge sharing in our LinkedIn Group

References

 

Key Points

  • Identify the ecodesign tasks that need to be supported by tools and methods
  • Define the type of tool/method that best fulfills your needs
  • Select tools and methods which are suitable to your current maturity on ecodesign implementation
  • Remember that there is not one-size-fits-all solution
    • Customize the selected tools and methods to your processes and culture
    • Ensure proper integration of the new tools and methods into the daily activities
    • Provide training to the people directly and indirectly involved with its application
    • Keep in mind that tools are important, but they are not going to solve all the problems

    Tools and methods I

    Select and implement the right ecodesign tools and methods: video I

    (press CC for subtitles in English)

    Tools and methods II

    Select and implement the right ecodesign tools and methods: video II

    (press CC for subtitles in English)

    LinkedIn

    Join the Ecodesign SIG LinkedIn Group and share your experience with us!

     

    Click here!

    https://ecodesign.dtu.dk/impu/tools-and-methods
    21 NOVEMBER 2024