Dynamic product development : Findings from participating action research in a fast new product development process

This article brings hands-on knowledge from the integrated development process of a new advanced product that had to be launched on to the market in an extremely short time. Quick, effective development was accomplished through product reviewing or benchmarking, user and subcontractor involvement, dynamic and parallel activities, active, motivating leadershp and consensus among those involved. The development process proved to be a winding journey with many problems to be overcome in a flexible and innovative way. No breaks were allowed and formal board meetings, stage-gate and other bureaucratic systems were avoided. Thorough cash-flow analyses were continuously carried out. The hectic pace created problems for and tension in the company seen from both short and long perspectives. Theoretical models of integrated product development did not match well to reality which is why the new concept, dynamic product development, is launched here. The article is based on participating action research.

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