Laura is working with suppliers on the design of a component for a new boiler.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

In Porter's Five Forces framework, thethreat of substitutesrefers to the availability of products or services that can perform the same function as the industry's product. The supplier's suggestion to use a newly developed plastic component instead of the traditional brass one introduces a substitute product. This alternative can potentially change the dynamics of the market by offering different benefits, such as cost savings or improved performance, thereby affecting competition.