Definition: The product support step is that period during which the product or process realizes a useful life.
Objective: The objective of the production support step is to maintain maximum value of the product or process through continual improvement in the technical aspects of the production process.
Product: The product of this activity is a competitive product.
Technical Activities: During the product support step, the following activities must be practiced:
Product on-site technical instructions and updates for safe and effective use of the product or process
Prepare, distribute and encourage use of instruction manuals for the assembly, operation, and maintenance of the product or process
Design, produce, and distribute "consumables" used in the product or process
Design and introduce timely but minor improvements in materials, components, systems, and software
Produce and distribute spare parts
Set up and provide warranty services
Introduce new applications developed for the product or process
Identify new product spin-offs or major product design changes that would require going back into earlier stage to be re-identified as a new product
Disseminate alerts and undertake remedial action for unplanned product deficiencies or changing safety and environmental requirements
Technical Information: The production support step usually will result in knowledge about the optimal conditions, technologies, processes, and procedures to produce a competitive product.
