Content analysis of publications on product-service systems

Abstract

This work is an update of the literature on product-service systems (PSS) through a review of the literature from 2006 to 2011. Aiming at changing consumption of products to a more sustainable society, the PSS has been considered a competitive opportunity, which offers the use of the product through the provision of services. In this context, this paper aims to complement the existing literature on PSS through a structured search of relevant journal databases. The identified studies have important information on the PSS and these are presented throughout the text, highlighting major journals, most cited authors and the main article used as reference by the academy. From the identified and interpreted publications, the paper highlights some key factors, which the literature has approached on the subject in recent years. Therefore, by analyzing the publications during the selected study period, a conclusive synthesis is presented at the end of each key-factor. Finally, some suggestions for future research on the subject are presented, highlighting the need for theoretical and empirical research to achieve better understanding about the benefits of a PSS as well as tools and methodologies that facilitate its implementation.