Linking demanufacturing operations with product DFE initiatives

Effective product stewardship strategies require computer manufacturers to employ effective design for environment (DFE) practices and efficient recycling operations to meet customer requirements and maximize asset recovery from end-of-life (EOL) equipment. This is especially true as public and government sectors continue to discuss and define extended product and producer responsibilities. However, focusing on DFE or recycling efficiencies alone will not ensure product or operational sustainability. To successfully meet these challenges, manufacturers must also link product design activities with demanufacturing operations through the deployment of an effective closed loop communications process. This type of communications link provides the best opportunity for continuous improvement in product designs and ensures that significant demanufacturing issues are being addressed. This paper describes how IBM uses the information and challenges identified during demanufacturing operations of computer equipment to better target new product DFE initiatives and maximize EOL product values. Examples of communication methods and approaches used successfully by IBM in closing the loop between design and EOL are also described.