Communication and Integration

Question 1

Wheelwright and Clark talk about the pattern of communication as a critical element of the interaction between upstrand and downstram groups. Describe the four dimensions of this pattern as outlined by the authors (5p).

Answer 1

Dimensions of Communications

Richess of Media
Frequency
Direction
Timimmg

Question 2

Also describe the four modes (Approaches) of upstream-downstream interaction to achieve integrations between two groups

Answer 2

Batch
Early Start or Start in the Dark
Early Involvement
Integrated Problem Solving

Question 3

a) Traditional functionally organized structures have a tendency to develop barriers to the necessary cooperation and integrations between functions. What are the underlying reasons to the existence of these barriers?

Answer 3

Lars Trygg Presentation

Competence 
Status
Culture
Organizational Affiliation
Goals
Time Pressure
Information availability

Clark and Wheelright

People upstream: “I won’t give you anything now, because I know I will have to change it later and I know that I will take the blame of it”

People Dowstream: “wait and see attitude”, “don’t talk to me until you are absolutely sure the design is done”

Performance and Compensation

Question 4

What integration mechanisms can organizations use in order to overcome these barriers?

Answer 4

Organization

Hierarchy and Authority
Rules Programs and Procedures
Planning and Goal Setting
Narrowing Span of Control

Lateral Process

Direct Contract
Liaison Roles
Integrating Roles
Task Forces
Cross-Functional Team
Matrix Design