LIFE CYCLE OF SHIPBUILDING PRODUCTS AS AN OBJECT OF ECONOMIC RESEARCH

The author set out to work on this article with the aim of summarizing the views of professional experts and characterizing the life cycle of extremely complex engineering structures (for example, ships and vessels) from an economic perspective. The study places emphasis on the practical application of the obtained results. It is emphasized that the life cycle of products created by shipyard workers is a complex multi-stage process. It extends from the development of a conceptual idea of a future structure during engineering to its decommissioning and recycling when the continuation of operation in any form is no longer feasible. In support of this working hypothesis, a graphical model has been constructed that reflects the sequence of stages in the life cycle of shipbuilding products. It is emphasized that achieving the objectives of this study creates favorable conditions for outlining the economic aspects of life cycle management both by public institutions (government, relevant ministries) and by corporate management in all its known forms. In particular, this refers to the analysis of large amounts of information on the cost of resources using the Life Cycle Costing methodology. Its positive characteristics are formulated. The author systematizes the areas in which the state and international organizations participate in improving the competitiveness of shipyards in the world markets, in which they are interested. Among the most important areas, in particular, are the introduction of new standards and mandatory regulatory procedures, the launch of grant programs, and the creation of technical assistance initiatives for shipbuilding enterprises in urgent need. Arguments are presented in favor of using effective instruments of ecological economics with an increased correlation between industrial and natural ecosystems to ensure the sustainable development of the respective businesses. Special attention is given to market research, in particular, in terms of the regulatory environment, markets intended for economic expansion, competitive tension, structure, and volume of demand for shipyard products.