Conflict identification in conceptual design: Algorithm and case study

The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic algorithm to identify conflicts implied in a product-environment system (PES). A PES is generated from environment analysis, the first activity of EBD methodology. Conflict identification is the second activity in EBD methodology. A detailed systematic approach to identify conflict is missing in this activity; therefore, the proposed algorithm is intended to close this gap. The algorithm includes the following tasks: 1) construct a performance network, 2) identify active and reactive conflicts, and 3) identify critical conflicts. A case study in collaboration with Area Development Planning (a subsection of the City of Edmonton) is also presented in this paper. The case study is to demonstrate the use of the proposed algorithm to develop a total quality management system. The algorithm lays the foundation for solution generation, which is the third activity in EBD methodology.