Ineffective Collaboration in Multi-Disciplinary Teams

Abstract

Our traditional approaches to problem solving and innovation are obsolete. The growing complexity of our needs and the problems that our life styles generate, demonstrate the increasing need for a more holistic approach which integrates the knowledge of all relevant areas from the early stages of a project. Understanding the complexities of these collaborations is the first step to build the appropriate frameworks that enhance their success. This paper presents a comprehensive classification of the most common challenges encountered in multi-disciplinary collaborations and argues for the value of making team members aware of these potential issues with the prospect of minimising their effects. Finally it is discussed the potential suitability of Service Design techniques and processes to become the ‘enabler’ of these holistic approaches.