Agile method for product development based on C-K theory and feature-driven development

Industrial companies strive to improve product delivery times while maintaining high-quality standards. Two main approaches to product design exist. The first is a systematic approach that follows a formal structure to ensure better control over the final quality of the product. However, this approach can be slow and bureaucratic. The second approach is an agile project management method that is faster but lacks the depth of a systematic design method. Recently, a new design approach called C-K theory has emerged. In this theory, the design process generates two spaces of concept C and knowledge K using mathematical principles. However, C-K theory lacks the same academic background as systematic approaches. To address this gap in the literature, a new method for product design has been proposed that combines feature-driven development (FDD) with C-K theory. The choice for FDD is due to its success in software development and its structure focused on functions and features, which facilitates the expansion of concepts and knowledge inherent to the C-K Theory process. The proposed method was evaluated using a derivative of the ‘flying boat,’ a well-known example from the origins of C-K theory. The method was found to be comprehensive, usable, and repeatable, making it suitable for product and service development. Unlike traditional linear development methods, this method follows development cycles until a mature concept is obtained. It provides a better managerial and methodological structure that is more aligned with a systematic vision than FDD and C-K theory alone. Overall, the proposed method can help insert creativity and a more systematic approach in the initial phases of product design in agile methods.