People as an essential tool for considering ethics in the product lifecycle

Abstract

This paper explores the vital engagement of people at different stages of the product lifecycle. The incorporation of human values in the creation of empathy allows for ethics to be considered across the design and make process. A case study approach was adopted utilising data obtained from two large consumer goods companies. From this, a relationship was found to lie between the involvement of people as active participants and the creation of empathy. These empathetic values consequently facilitated the consideration of a responsible approach to be implemented. Conclusions show that during the design process people create added value with a participatory approach, whilst during production consumers become prosumers in consumer-led innovation to help drive forward an ethical agenda.