Pre-analysis of Ekdahls Möbler’s possibilities for DPP

Introduction

Ekdahls Möbler, a small furniture company, recognized the need to improve their business operations by embracing digital transformation initiatives. One such initiative was the adoption of Digital Product Passports, aimed at providing comprehensive insights into their products’ lifecycle, materials, and sustainability attributes.

This case study delves into the pre-analysis phase of Ekdahls Möbler’s implementation of Digital Product Passports, showcasing the collaboration between Ekdahls Möbler and Sigma Technology, and the strategic planning.

Project Background

Ekdahls Möbler’s decision to implement Digital Product Passports was driven by new EU legislation requiring manufacturers to provide unique Digital Product Passports for every product sold on the European market. These passports must include detailed information about the product’s composition, environmental impact, and end-of-life handling. The project, sponsored by SILEO 1° Open Call for Business Digital Transformation Projects, underscores the company’s commitment to complying with these regulations and advancing digital innovation.

Partnership and Collaboration

Ekdahls Möbler partnered with Sigma Technology, known for its expertise in information modeling, target group analysis, and process/system knowledge. The collaboration aimed to leverage Sigma Technology’s capabilities to develop a prototype of a Digital Product Passport for one of Ekdahls Möbler’s furniture items. Additionally, the project involved Lingon, which contributed to the development of the passport prototype, and Interior Cluster Sweden, which participated in the project to ensure industry-wide relevance and support.

Workshops and Requirements Gathering

Two workshops were conducted with representatives from Ekdahls Möbler, Interior Cluster Sweden, and Sigma Technology. These workshops served as platforms to gather requirements, identify pain points, and define project goals. Through collaborative discussions, stakeholders outlined the necessary features and functionalities of the Digital Product Passport.

Gap Analysis and Project Planning

Sigma Technology conducted a comprehensive gap analysis, comparing the current state of product documentation at Ekdahls Möbler with the desired future state envisioned through Digital Product Passports. This analysis identified discrepancies and served as the basis for developing an initial project plan. The plan outlined key activities related to information, identifiers, process, and system required for the implementation.

Prototype Development & Outcome

Ekdahls Möbler partnered with Sigma Technology, which is known for its expertise in information modeling, target group analysis, and process/system knowledge. Utilizing Sigma Technology’s information model as an example, a prototype of the Digital Product Passport (DPP) was developed for one of Ekdahls Möbler’s furniture items. This prototype served as a physical document containing crucial details such as materials used, manufacturing processes, and sustainability attributes, aligning with the upcoming EU legislation on DPPs.