Exploring team-based competencies necessary in product development to enhance competitiveness.

摘要

The problem addressed in this research is that U.S. companies have lost 80% of their market share across the automobile, machine tools, and electronics industries to Asian competitors. The purpose of this study was to identify the team-based competencies necessary for U.S. manufacturing companies to enhance their competitiveness. A qualitative research method was used for this study. The Delphi iterative design was used to rigorously capture qualitative data because it works especially well when the goal is to improve our understanding of problems, opportunities, or solutions. A panel of 19 experts with an average of 27 years of work experience in product development was used to answer specific questions to validate the feasibility of using team-based competencies to develop a product. The research results indicated that to remain globally competitive in the marketplace, corporations will need to seek continuous improvement in quality, cost-effectiveness, and speed of execution. The research results also derived a strategic approach for product development and implementation. Moreover, the research results may be used to enhance competitiveness in manufacturing and production and responsiveness to customers in terms of speed and quality of service.