Information systems and circular manufacturing strategies : the role of master data

In the transition towards a more sustainable future, circular economy is a key concept. Manufacturers play a key role in this transition, and different circular manufacturing strategies rely on digital technologies and information systems to be fulfilled. These systems and technologies need master data, basic data a firm’s business activities are based on, to work. However, manufacturing companies still have little knowledge on which master data are needed, and how these data can support decisions in circular manufacturing strategies. In this paper, we bridge different circular manufacturing strategies with important master data elements in a framework for master data management. The basis for the framework is scientific literature within the domains of circular manufacturing strategies and information systems. The framework can be used by researchers to explore master data requirements for different strategies, and by practitioners to get an overview of data requirements for different circular manufacturing strategies. Keywords: circular manufacturing, master data, master data management