Layered Boundary Spanning in Global Virtual Project Networks: Exploring the Role of Cultural Boundary Spanners at Knowledge Domain and Technological Boundaries

Abstract

As the Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry globalizes, design and planning work is increasingly executed in geographically distributed and culturally diverse Global Virtual Project Networks (GVPNs). Within a GVPN, boundaries exist that can interfere with collaboration effectiveness and work processes. In order to increase effectiveness of GVPNs, we need to develop a better understanding of how to span boundaries. Although previous research has examined strategies for spanning individual boundaries, we lack an understanding of how multiple, layered boundaries can be simultaneously spanned. For instance, when knowledge domain boundaries correspond to cultural boundaries, are cultural boundary spanners able to effectively support network interactions? Our research examines a case where cultural, technological and knowledge domain boundaries simultaneously exist to identify effective interactional strategies that minimize the impact of the boundaries on project execution time. Based on a social network analysis, our results indicate that cultural boundary spanners may not be effective when simultaneously spanning knowledge domain and technological boundaries. Our research contributes a preliminary exploration of layered boundaries and layered boundary spanning in GVPNs and provides project decision-makers with insight into effective GVPN team composition and interactional strategies that can lead to more efficient project outcomes.