Identifying and Dealing with Complexties in New Product and Process Development Projects

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the sources of complexities in new product and process development projects and the approaches used to deal with these complexities. The study also examines the important conditions for implementing these approaches. Information was collected through semi-structured interviews with ten senior project managers from two types of projects; new product development projects and internal process improvement projects. The study shows that in product development projects the major sources of complexity are the interdependency between tasks and the novelty of the project. In process improvement projects, the major sources of complexity are the diversity and multiplicity of end-users and uncertainty. Results show further that addressing complexity in process improvement project is accomplished through robust front-end planning and comprehensive involvement of stakeholder. In product development projects, complexity is addressed through technical means by reducing the number and interdependency between tasks. Conditions for addressing complexities, include holistic understanding of the project, its scope and objectives, understanding the client and its need, having formal project management methods, solid understanding of project team strengths and weaknesses. Understanding the correlation between technical aspects and organizational aspects. Switching leadership styles and skilled project manager.