Recent
Projects
Since January 2000, I have conducted the following projects as an independent consultant:
· A global tier 1 systems supplier: create a business model for the introduction of a new product (2001-2010). Interview the client’s key account managers and its main customers (OEMs) and build the feedback into the business model.
· Tyre Pressure Monitoring and Mobility Systems Research: a global research programme to determine how quickly these technologies will be implemented on passenger cars and light trucks. The ten-year forecast shows that at least one third of vehicles will have no spare tyre by 2010 and most will have TPM.
· Truck Brake System Technology: Legislative changes in the US and new technology in Europe is totally changing the braking systems used on heavy and medium trucks. Component suppliers must be aware of these changes to adapt their products and output levels to the new market reality. However, the two markets are largely going their own way. This research enabled one international component supplier to prepare for these changes.
· EC Competition Directorate: A post-merger analysis in the German bus industry. Following the merger of Mercedes-Benz Bus and Kässbohrer in the mid-1990s it was important to evaluate the impact this has had on the domestic market in Germany.
· Strategic Review – Breakdown Services: a provider of emergency services to individuals, motor manufacturers, fleets and vehicle insurance groups needed an independent review of how it uses the masses of information available to it, to drive the strategic and tactical planning process.
· EC Competition Directorate: An investigation into the system of subsidies paid to the auto industry in the EU. This involved looking closely at the issue of over-capacity in the industry and the assessment method the EC uses to evaluate requests for EU government subsidies.
· A UK materials supplier: model aftermarket and OE demand for an engine component -. Interview the key customers for the product regarding their requirements and product lifetime expectations. Build these assumptions into the demand model.
· DERA (now Qinetiq): analysis of opportunities in the transport sector for Europe's largest R&D company, which the British government is privatising.
· Purchasing Strategy Research: A project researching vehicle manufacturers' purchasing strategies for the coming decade, involving face-to-face interviews with purchasing directors in the USA and Europe.