Product-service system design

Sustainable product-service system design

A Product-Service System (PSS) is a business model that integrates products and services to offer value to customers. Rather than offering products alone, a PSS includes additional services that enhance the value of the product or address specific customer needs.

In a PSS, customers may not own the product, but they can access it on a pay-per-use basis, or a subscription basis. For example, a car-sharing service is a PSS that allows customers to use a car without owning it, and also includes services like maintenance, insurance, and fueling.

PSS models can benefit both businesses and customers. For businesses, PSS models can lead to increased customer loyalty, increased revenue streams, and a more sustainable business model. For customers, PSS models can offer more customized solutions to their needs, more affordable access to products, and a reduced environmental impact through shared ownership and reduced waste.

Ecological perspective

The ecological perspective on PSS emphasizes the need to reduce the environmental impact of products and services throughout their life cycle, from raw material extraction and production to end-of-life disposal.

From an ecological perspective, PSS can contribute to a more sustainable economy by optimizing the use of resources and reducing waste. PSS models can be designed to prioritize the use of renewable and recyclable materials, as well as to reduce the energy and resource inputs required to produce and operate products and services.

PSS can also encourage the sharing and reuse of products, which can reduce the overall number of products needed and minimize waste. By extending the lifespan of products through repair, refurbishment, or repurposing, PSS can help reduce the amount of waste generated and minimize the use of new resources.

Moreover, PSS can promote eco-innovation, which involves the development of new technologies, products, and services that are environmentally sustainable. PSS can create opportunities for innovation in areas such as material science, renewable energy, and waste management.

In summary, the ecological perspective on PSS highlights the importance of designing and implementing PSS that prioritize the conservation of resources, the reduction of waste, and the promotion of sustainable innovation. This approach can lead to a more sustainable economy and a healthier environment.

Product-service systems in Finland

Design Center Muova

Design Center Muova carries out DesignPSS project. 

Muova has been known for it’s capabilities in industrial and service design. Now Muova is deepening it’s knowledge on product-service systems.

DesignPSS project for corporations

Finnish corporations are welcome to share the challenges and needs of the industry or collaborate on the PSS framework.

Would you like to be part of the future and participate in the DesignPSS project? Contact Miia Lammi for further information.

Contact us

Miia Lammi

Development manager 
050 408 4969
miia.lammi@muova.fi