Uncertainty in collaborative NPD: Effects on the selection of technology and supplier

To gain competitive advantage, firms involve suppliers in New Product Development (NPD). However, uncertainty affects selection of suppliers and associated technologies, and selection outcomes in terms of commitment to one supplier or maintaining flexibility. We report on a case study of collaborati...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of engineering and technology management 2014-01, Vol.31 (1), p.103-119
Main Authors: Melander, Lisa, Tell, Fredrik
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Business Studies
Collaboration
Collaborative R&D
Competitive business
Energy storage
Flexibility
Företagsekonomi
Gain
Management
Power systems
Product development
R&D
R&D management
Research & development
Studies
Supplier involvement
Suppliers
Technology selection
Uncertainty
Vendor supplier relations
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Summary:To gain competitive advantage, firms involve suppliers in New Product Development (NPD). However, uncertainty affects selection of suppliers and associated technologies, and selection outcomes in terms of commitment to one supplier or maintaining flexibility. We report on a case study of collaborative NPD with the aim to develop an energy storage unit. The case involved selection of both technology and supplier, where both were changed during the NPD. Drawing upon Hall et al. (2011), we analyze technological, organizational and commercial uncertainties. We demonstrate how technological, commercial and organizational uncertainties cause firms to seek flexibility rather than commitment to one supplier.
ISSN:0923-4748
1879-1719
1879-1719
DOI:10.1016/j.jengtecman.2013.10.009