Talking About Organizations Podcast
73: Organizing Innovation -- Michael Tushman (Part 1)
Feb 16, 2021
Hila Lifshitz-Assaf, an Associate Professor at NYU Stern and former NASA boundary spanning researcher, joins the discussion about Michael Tushman's impactful work on innovation. They explore how boundary roles like gatekeepers enhance communication and drive organizational innovation. The conversation dives into the dynamics of R&D teams and how various knowledge frameworks shape project outcomes. Lifshitz-Assaf highlights the changing coordination challenges teams face in today's fast-paced environments, revealing the vital role of informal networks.
27:46
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Quick takeaways
- Boundary spanning is vital for innovation as it facilitates communication across divisions and enhances knowledge sharing.
- Tushman's research indicates that an optimal number of boundary spanners is crucial for maximizing R&D project performance without incurring coordination costs.
Deep dives
The Concept of Boundary Spanning in Innovation
Boundary spanning is a crucial concept in innovation, as it involves individuals who facilitate the flow of information across various divisions and external environments. The paper highlights boundary spanners as key players who connect different areas within and outside an organization, enabling effective communication and knowledge sharing necessary for successful innovation. Tushman’s study involved analyzing 345 individuals across 58 projects to observe their communication patterns, specifically focusing on oral interactions that are typically undocumented. This research identifies two major roles within boundary spanning: gatekeepers who manage external information flow and liaisons who handle internal cross-department communication.
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