This paper proposes a number of information acquisition mechanisms by which engineering designers may acquire information from suppliers. It then provides an overview of a selection of case design projects that were studied from the perspective of customer as designer-supplier information interactions. Subsequently, based on an analysis of models of these data, it shows that engineering designers may not be exploiting the ‘information and knowledge’ available from suppliers to its full potential. Finally, it highlights a number of ‘interaction guidelines’ specific areas in which engineering designers are lacking in support.
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