Rasika G Joshi

Rasika G Joshi

Project Technical Lead, R & D
Schneider Electric India
Private Limited
PGEMP Batch 89

How digitalisation is transforming new product introduction

Publication: IPF Online Article | Date: 20 March 2026

Digitalisation is redefining the New Product Introduction (NPI) process by replacing fragmented, manual workflows with integrated digital systems that improve collaboration, visibility, and execution. The article traces the evolution of NPI from sequential product development to today’s connected manufacturing environment, where real-time information sharing and standardised processes accelerate product launches. Through a capstone project undertaken at Schneider Electric’s Electronics Excellence Centre, the study highlights how implementing a centralised digital platform addressed documentation gaps, inconsistent project tracking, and excessive manual follow-ups. Features such as standardised templates, automated reminders, real-time dashboards, and centralised records strengthened cross-functional coordination while improving knowledge sharing and project governance. The initiative also reduced dependence on individual expertise and established a scalable framework for continuous improvement. The case demonstrates that digitalisation is not merely a technology upgrade but a strategic enabler that enhances operational efficiency, product quality, and organisational readiness for Industry 4.0.

Key insights for practitioners:

  • Reimagining new product introduction: Digitalisation transforms NPI from a sequential process into a collaborative, connected framework, enabling faster decision-making, improved coordination, and shorter product development cycles.
  • Standardisation drives consistency: A common digital platform with standardised templates strengthens documentation quality, improves governance, and creates a reliable repository for project knowledge and best practices.
  • Real-time visibility improves execution: Dashboards, automated reminders, and centralised project tracking enhance transparency, reduce manual follow-ups, and enable timely intervention throughout the product development lifecycle.
  • Strengthening cross-functional collaboration: Integrated digital workflows connect engineering, manufacturing, quality, and support teams, improving communication, reducing silos, and enabling seamless execution across locations.
  • Building sustainable digital capabilities: User feedback, phased implementation, and employee training ensured successful adoption and created a scalable platform that supports future organisational needs.
  • Enabling long-term competitive advantage: Beyond operational improvements, digitalisation strengthens product reliability, supports better resource planning, and provides a foundation for continuous improvement and sustainable manufacturing growth.

Synopsis

The article demonstrates how digitalisation transforms New Product Introduction by integrating people, processes, and information through a centralised platform. A capstone project at Schneider Electric illustrates how standardised workflows, real-time visibility, and collaborative execution improve efficiency, product quality, and organisational readiness for future manufacturing challenges.

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