Based on an in-depth single case study of a collaborative product development project, this paper argues that knowledge integration mechanisms change across the different phases of the product development process, reflecting changes in the content and sources of knowledge to be integrated. Our findings imply that managers need to be able to adapt and change their knowledge integration approaches throughout product development processes. We discuss implications for the use of product development models when integration of knowledge with customers is an essential part of a firm's attempt to create a competitive advantage.
Funding agencies:The authors acknowledge financial suport for this research from Vinnova, Ragnar Söderbergs and Jan Wallanders och Tom Hedelius Stiftelse samt Tore Browaldhs Stiftelse foundations. The authors thank the participating firm and anonymous reviewers for valuable feedback and comments.