Product-service systems (PSS) are often presented as an inherently sustainable business model. The argumentation is often based on theoretical considerations, which cite circular economy (CE) characteristics in PSS business models as an explanation. In this paper we examined to what extent positive and negative sustainability effects of PSS could actually be observed, based on use cases. For this purpose, we conducted a systematic literature review and analyzed the statements on sustainability effects based on the triple bottom line approach. We find that positive sustainability effects, especially on the environmental sustainability of PSS, are described disproportionately often, which may be indicating a possible publication bias. In addition, the methods used to derive statements on sustainability effects are very heterogeneous and often unsystematic, making it difficult to compare the described effects. Furthermore, we were able to identify drivers that are particularly often considered in literature to be responsible for sustainability effects. As a result, we were able to derive direct implications for future research in the field of sustainability assessment of PSS.

The increasing importance of software as an essential functional provider in products and processes requires that companies master the development capabilities to continiously and quickly deliver high-quality software features. DevOps (acronym for Development and Operations) is an essential approach to these capabilities, which has so far been used predominantly in software-driven companies. This paper investigates the conditions under which DevOps can also be used in the industrial context of series manufacturing in order to be able to steadily develop and provide software features used in these environments (e.g. for monitoring and maintenance of manufacturing machines). A concept for DevOps for manufacturing systems was developed based on current best practices and the specific situation in the industrial company. The concept was then implemented and validated with experts on the basis of initial development cycles, demonstrating the usefulness of DevOps for manufacturing systems.

Product Service Systems (PSS) integrate technical systems, digital infrastructure, and digital and physical services to deliver value to customers in a comprehensive way throughout the life cycle of the PSS. While the potential benefits of PSSs, such as economic efficiency and sustainability, are well-recognized, their implementation and evaluation are often hindered by significant complexities and uncertainties, particularly in the early concept phase. This paper introduces a graph-based reasoning approach that enables the evaluation of PSS concepts despite vague and uncertain understanding. By defining key characteristics in the value creation process qualitatively in distinct and probabilistic states, the graph model makes the concept executable and allows for transparent evaluation. The approach actively considers knowledge gaps and variations in the PSS concept, offering insight into how uncertainties and alternative configurations impact system performance. A case study of a PSS for metal powder recycling in additive manufacturing is conducted to validate the method, demonstrating its applicability for PSS concept evaluation.