Rhythms of Learning -- Radical and Incremental Innovation Projects and Problem-solving in the Automotive Industry

Abstract

This paper studies effects of interaction and communication patterns on learning in radical and incremental New Product Development (NPD) projects. It presents results of a multiple longitudinal case study of project meetings and data exchange along a technological transition path in four sequential car development projects. To gain in depth insights, data were analyzed on project level and on problem-solving level by means of a mixed-method approach. We contribute to the literature on organizational learning and problem-solving in NPD by deriving propositions based on three rhythmic patterns identified. First, we identify that effective project-to-project learning requires communication and interaction overlap, and is moderated by project newness. Second, successful projects form a wave-shaped rhythm of communication defined by changing amplitudes and frequencies. In effective learning, communication follows a decaying oscillation. Third, we observe that interaction is best described as an s-shaped curve, reflecting phases of high and low intense artifact generation. In combination, identified patterns serve as reference values to evaluate project performance and allow managerial intervention.