Repurposing as a Design Strategy: A Multiple-Case Study Analysis

This paper explores proactive manufacturing repurposing as a strategic design and business opportunity beyond traditional sustainability and crisis-driven motivations. Through the analysis of nine case studies across diverse sectors, we identify key external and internal factors that influence firms’ ability to repurpose components and products across applications. At the external level, market demand, technology cycles, and infrastructure compatibility shape the feasibility of second-life applications. At the internal level (design-related factors), product design features—especially modularity and life-cycle alignment—emerge as critical enablers or constraints. The findings highlight the need for cross-application opportunity assessment tools and design methodologies that balance upstream performance requirements with downstream repurposing potential. This study opens new avenues for circular design, strategic innovation, and repurposing-aware product development.