This research, which is highly focused on applicability, is centered around three main areas:

• “Solution Space Development” – how can companies identify which product variety to develop and manufacture, and how can companies efficiently develop these product by using modularity and platforms? E.g. product family modelling, modularization, variety management, complexity management.
   
• “Robust Process Design” – How can companies achieve an appropriate level of flexibility in their business processes and production system? E.g. Reconfigurable manufacturing, production platforms, configurable production equipment.
   
• “Choice Navigation” – How can companies enable their customers to choose the right product corresponding to their individual needs. E.g. product configurators, product selectors, cost prediction and estimation.