Ball, Z; Cagan, J and Kotovsky, K (2024) Supporting management of new product development via a novel conceptual model: An interview driven approach. Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, 22(3), pp. 991-1011. ISSN 1726-0531
Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to gain a deeper understanding of the industry practice to guide the formation of support tools with a rigorous theoretical backing. Cross-functional teams are an essential component in new product development (NPD) of complex products to promote comprehensive coverage of product design, marketing, sales, support as well as many other activities of business. Efficient use of teams can allow for greater technical competency coverage, increased creativity, reduced development times and greater consideration of ideas from a variety of stakeholders. While academics continually aspire to propose methods for improved team composition, there exists a gap between research directions and applications found within industry practice. Design/methodology/approach: Through interviewing product development managers working across a variety of industries, this paper investigates the common practices of team utilization in an organizational setting. Following these interviews, this paper proposes a conceptual two-dimensional management support model aggregating the primary drivers of team success and providing direction to systematically address features of team management and composition. Findings: Based on this work, product managers are recommended to continually address the positioning of members throughout the entire NPD process. In the early stages, individuals are to be placed to work on project components with explicit consideration toward the perceived complexity of tasks and individual competency. Throughout the development process, individuals' positions vary based on new information while continued emphasis is placed on maintaining a shared understanding. Originality/value: Bridging the gap between theory and application within product development teams is a necessary step toward improved product develop. Industrial settings require practical solutions that can be applied economically and efficiently within their organization. Theoretical reflections postulated by academia support improved team design; however, to achieve true success, they must be applicable when considering product development.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | design models; product design; product development; team construction; team management; teamwork |
| Index terms: | creativity, teamwork, reflection, academia, marketing, new product development, interview, manager, design model, product design, team management, methodology, product development, team composition, complexity |
| Subjects: | innovation and technology management, innovation studies, practitioner, business, data collection methods, innovation and creative processes, systems engineering, educational institutions, professional development, design process, research methods, management |
| Topics: | Design Practice, Organizational Design, Education, Business Strategy, Research Practice, Information Management, Engineering Principles, Roles and Professions |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTE |
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