Project Network Dynamics Lab
Examining, Modeling & Improving Systemic Change in Project Networks

FUNDING

National Science Foundation #0943069
Amount: $316,584  
Duration: 2009 - 2012
Title: CyberGRID Networks

Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Fellowship Amount: $45,000  
Duration: 2009 - 2011
Title: Understanding the Role of Boundary Objects in Resolving Knowledge System Conflicts

COLLABORATORS

FACULTY

Phil Bernstein
Professor, Yale University

Carrie Sturts Dossick
Professor, University of Washington

Ashwin Mahalingam
Professor, Indian Institute of Technology - Madras

Debra Noumair
Professor, Columbia University

Riitta Smeds
Professor, Helsinki University of Technology

STUDENTS

Ray Moran
PhD Student, Columbia University

Gabriel Peschiera
Undergrad Student, Columbia University

INFORMATION SYSTEM INTEGRATION DYNAMICS

Project networks span a multiplicity of organizational boundaries requiring information systems to integrate across boundaries.  Recent advancements in parametric 3-D CAD modeling tools have created challenges for organizations implementing such tools. In this research we are developing strategies to improve implementation of boundary spanning information systems and developing tools to support and understand the virtualization of the engineering workforce in globally distributed networks of engineers.

PROJECT #1 - National Science Foundation #0943069:  Researching virtual organizations challenges researchers to adapt to new constraints and provides possibilities to exploit new opportunities. In studying the organizational implications of executing complex design work in virtual environments, we found that traditional organizational research methodologies were time consuming, often difficult to implement, and failed to exploit the information richness of the virtual environment. This research entails: (1) CyberGRID Net – developing a research data collection and analysis tool integrated into an existing global virtual engineering team working environment, and (2) CyberGRID Networks – utilizing that tool to develop fundamental insights into how globally distributed engineering teams enact complex design work together and with affordances in the virtual environment.

Acknowledgment and Disclaimer: This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. 0943069. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.

PROJECT #2 - Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Industry Studies Fellowship Research:  This research fills a gap in understanding of how intercultural networks of firms originating from the same specialization (e.g., engineering designers) navigate knowledge system exchanges through the interactive use of boundary objects. This central question examined in this research is how engineering design firms in cross-cultural, global project networks exchange, develop and resolve conflicts in knowledge systems through the use of intermediate boundary objects. We focus specifically on how a 3D CAD integrated information system is used to resolve knowledge system conflicts that emerge during knowledge exchanges. The findings are elucidating strategies that can help maintain the innovative edge of the U.S. engineering workforce.