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Exploring coordination practices in digital–physical product development

Stine Hendler (Center for Industrial Production, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark)

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management

ISSN: 1741-038X

Article publication date: 2 July 2020

Issue publication date: 24 March 2021

560

Abstract

Purpose

The paper explores coordination practices in digital–physical product development and their consequences for companies traditionally relying on physical product development.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an embedded case study design, the paper reports four action research initiatives addressing the digital–physical coordination challenges encountered by a leading B2C company.

Findings

Effective coordination of digital–physical product development, firstly, involves standardization of process, output and skills to accommodate the stability needed for efficient physical product development and manufacturing. Secondly, it involves agile coordination events, such as Scrum ceremonies and PI planning, to facilitate the mutual adjustment needed to allow agility and the differences between digital and physical product development to be continuously and successfully negotiated.

Research limitations/implications

The paper illustrates a research model with case evidence and suggests tentative theory in the form of propositions. Future research should explore coordination problems and solutions in different digital–physical project types and contexts.

Practical implications

Coordination practices for digital–physical product development are presented and analyzed, providing inspiration for companies.

Originality/value

The paper is the first to explore coordination practices within the emerging field of digital–physical product development.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

This research is funded by the studied case company. The company has neither defined the research topic, nor guided the research. The case company has approved this paper before publication to ensure adherence to company confidentiality policies.

Citation

Hendler, S. (2021), "Exploring coordination practices in digital–physical product development", Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, Vol. 32 No. 3, pp. 742-771. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMTM-06-2019-0229

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited

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