Social network analysis of team dynamics and intra-organizational development in an aerospace firm

Abstract

This research examines results from a dual case study in defining a model for high productivity and performance of cross-functional development teams in an aerospace engineering community. More specifically it explores cohesiveness and team dynamics over an approximate 4-year period in a project team that recently designed and built a highly innovative propulsion system. The 'successful' team delivered this propulsion system ahead of schedule, below cost, and was considered a highly productive team within the researched Aerospace firm. Ucinet is used to map k-cores, month by month, for the entire life cycle of the project. This methodology is then compared to a 'less successful' team to determine those variables responsible for high productivity and overall success of a highly technical research and development team. The results encompass the critical times in networked teams that inclusion in membership of the team is most critical for success. © 2007 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.