Analysis of value creation through product-service-systems inthe German medical engineering industry

Our analysis of seven companies from the German medical engineering industryrevealed that product-service-systems play a central role in value creation. Customer solutionsare highly individual and often consist of a medical product and corresponding servicesspanning the complete product life cycle. This paper shows on an empirical basis thatinformation technology becomes an enabler for services around medical equipment andthat information technology implements products and services towards an integrated customersolution. Strategic objectives indicate a trend towards continuous partnerrelationshipbetween manufacturers and their clients.[...]