Development of a Boundary Object Assessment Framework Supporting Knowledge Integration in Product Realization

This study introduces a four-step boundary object assessment framework designed to support knowledge integration in product realization. The framework helps select the most suitable boundary object for various contexts, facilitating effective knowledge integration. Developed through transdisciplinary engineering research, including close collaboration between practitioners and researchers, the framework consolidates fragmented research, identifies key boundary object properties, and aligns them with situational complexity. It provides a structured approach to assessing and managing boundary objects, meeting four key criteria: stimulating collaboration, practical applicability, comprehensiveness, adaptability, and supporting organizational learning. The framework is practical and user-friendly, enabling managers to select and implement boundary objects that enhance teamwork and decision-making in complex product realization scenarios. This paper contributes to the literature on knowledge integration in product realization.