Specifying and synchronising partner activities in the dispersed product development process

This study is concerned with the way firms identify, specify and temporally co-ordinate partner activities in a networked development context. It draws attention to activity specification and synchronisation. These constructs are explored through a case study of the multiple and dispersed activities carried out in the development of a radical sound-broadcasting device. The findings suggest that the ability to specify partner activities and assess partner capabilities can influence the timing and nature of partner involvement. They further indicate that timely two-way capability display, along with organisational flexibility and adaptation, can enhance partner activity specification over time. The study shows that attention to pacing and synchronisation of partner activities can add value to the development process. © 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.