Foresight capabilities needed by OEMs for product development: Case study of Kalmar Global

Sammanfattning

Given the dynamic and uncertain business environment companies face today, coupled with emerging sustainability requirements, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) face the challenge of anticipating and adapting to these changes. Developing foresight capabilities is one way to address this challenge. The study investigates the foresight capabilities required by OEMs to support innovation and product development activities in light of the challenges they face. To explore which capabilities are essential in the current business landscape, the research employs case study methodology and studies foresight practices at Kalmar Global, a global Original Equipment Manufacturing organization. To gain insights, semi-structured interviews are used to capture diverse perspectives from Sourcing, Research and Development, and Engineering teams that are involved in product development. This study identifies capabilities that help navigate uncertainties in the business environment and identify emerging opportunities and challenges. A foresight model is proposed, focusing on functions relevant to product development. It identifies important foresight practices for OEMs, such as the case company. Futures literacy, the use of artificial intelligence, skills development and various foresight methods are identified as particularly relevant for conducting foresight in product development activities.