Managing the Implementation of Metal Additive Manufacturing : A Case Study at SAAB

Abstract: As industries are transitioning towards mass customisation, manufacturers are looking for alternative techniques that can support the need for a more innovative, flexible, and sustainable production process. One such technique that is currently gaining a lot of momentum is Additive Manufacturing (AM). AM can achieve more complex structures and geometries which in turn makes it possible for highly customised designs with greater efficiency and sustainability. However, despite all the advantages of AM, adoption rates are still low compared to industry predictions, thus some challenges need to be addressed. This paper aims to study the implementation of metal additive manufacturing (MAM) by comparing literature with a real-world example, i.e., a case study at Saab, in an effort to answer the research question: Why adopt MAM; what are the challenges to a successful implementation of MAM; and how can they be overcome? The main theories that have been analysed in this study are Diffusion of Innovation (DOI), Technology-Organisation-Environment (TOE) and Change Management. Which are believed to be essential for understanding the implementation process of new technology.  The thesis follows a qualitative research approach where a single case study was carried out to be able to conduct a more in-depth analysis of the research topic.  In the case study it was identified that key challenges for Saab in implementing MAM are related to Knowledge gaps (both internal and external, partly due to immature technology); Organisational (structural and cultural) and Materials (qualification and standardisation) These key challenges, as identified in the interviews with Saab, match the challenges found in literature where they are described as Knowledge/technical know-how challenges, Organisational challenges, Integration challenges and Standardisation/qualification challenges. In conclusion, the reason to adopt MAM for the case company, a producer of parts with high requirements on functionality and optimization, is the strategic importance due to the technology enabling architectural innovation. The main challenges are related to the organisation and product development process, both in part due to knowledge challenges. In overcoming the challenges to the implementation, it is believed that increased internal and external collaboration is important as a way of generating and developing knowledge and at the same time using the resources more efficiently. Also, the need for re-designing the product development process to become cross-functional and include the whole system to enable architectural innovation.