Enhancing high-tech product development through communication

Abstract

Product development faces communication challenges which are accumulated when several companies are involved as typically in a high-tech industry. In this research, project personnel's communication needs are studied and improvement ideas are sought. This paper aims to help companies and project managers improve communication and hence enhance product development. The research was conducted as a multiple case study through a web-based survey to identify project personnel's perceptions of the primary information sources and typical communication problems. According to this study, personal relations are the main source for information for the personnel conducting the actual work. Data management systems are also utilised; however, they should better support the communication needs of product designers. In addition, companies with own products should better acknowledge the communication needs of their sub-contractors and their personnel. Investments in well-functioning communication, both planning and follow-up, should be made at project, product development and organisational levels.