Types and Models of Product-Service System in Design Agencies

Product-service system design(PSSD)plays a significant role in both design theory and practice with increasing importance.Although scholars have made significant efforts to delineate its definition,methods,and applications,misunderstandings about PSSD persist widely across design agencies and academia.This study aims to outline the various types and models of product-service systems(PSSs)based on inputs from product design agencies.To achieve this purpose,this study applies a two-step research method,comprising a Q-sorting procedure followed by hypothesis testing.This allows us to study the business scope and design model of each design agency from a field research perspective.We propose a design framework with four basic types of PSSs,11 extended types of PSSs,and 4P-8D PSSD models.The current study has theoretical and practical implications.For academics,our models are clearly classified and validated.For practitioners,our models of PSSs can support design agencies in clearly recognizing their position within the design industry,allowing them to select the appropriate types and models to facilitate their future development.Our study also provides helpful guidances for college graduates,cutting-edge designers,and new design studios.