In this paper we investigate objects that span boundaries to foster mutual understanding in virtual innovation communities. In particular, we study virtual whiteboards (which comprise a mix of boundary objects) in the early phases of the innovation process. Information systems provide new boundary objects for community members which support their non-canonical, collaborative work required for igniting new ideas (Brown & Duguid, 1991a; Wenger, 1998). Our study follows the two-sided perspective of socio-technical systems theory (Bostrom&Heinen, 1977). From a social perspective, extant literature provides coverage of the roles of boundary objects for collaborative innovation (Carlile, 2002; Tushman, 1977). From a technical perspective, research investigates efficient communication through media, predicting that most efficient communication is achieved when the object's synchronicity fits the communication requirements (Dennis, Fuller, & Valacich, 2008). First, we assume that boundary objects which convey information most effectively perform high in the idea generation phase. Second, we assume boundary objects that converge on meaning most effectively to perform high in the development and evaluation of ideas. Our empirical analysis takes the form of multiple case study analysis (Yin, 2009) of (virtual) innovation communities. Data has been collected from users of a virtual whiteboard who participated in collaborative innovation. The data comprises of information on the use of boundary objects in workshops with members of the innovation community. We conclude with managerial and practical recommendations on how to design boundary objects for (virtual) innovation communities to overcome communications boundaries.
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