The Role of Integration Between Concurrent Engineering and Product Life Cycle Costing in Enhancing Competitive Advantages

An Applied Study in Garstin Industrial Company Operating in Duhok Governorate, Kurdistan Region of Iraq

Abstract

This study aims to demonstrate the role of integrating concurrent engineering and product life cycle costing in reducing costs and minimizing process time across all life cycle stages (pre-production, production, and post-production) to support market sustainability and enhance competitive advantages. To achieve these objectives, a deductive method was employed to analyze relevant literature, alongside an applied study conducted at Garstin Industrial Company, operating in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. This integration provides a comprehensive framework for cost management throughout the product life cycle while maintaining quality and innovation. The study reached several significant conclusions, most notably that integrating concurrent engineering and life cycle costing during the pre-production phase plays an effective role in saving time and costs. As a key technique, concurrent engineering focuses primarily on product design during pre-production to ensure the company’s survival and growth in a competitive business environment. Based on these findings, the study presented several recommendations. First, it is necessary to adopt concurrent engineering across all stages of the product life cycle—including development, design, and manufacturing—to ensure improved quality, reduced costs, and optimized time. Second, management must assess the efficiency of this integration and continuously adjust strategies based on performance outcomes. Finally, the study recommends a greater focus on sustainability by considering the environmental and social impacts of products within the cost analysis, thereby enhancing resource sustainability and minimizing waste throughout the product's life cycle.