Communicating in a Design Team - creating meaning in a design team through boundary objects

Abstract: This thesis explores object based design team communication. It is assumed that boundary objects in design teams serve as an important communication aid and are considered to have a crucial role in the conducting of multidisciplinary teamwork. Objects, such as design specifications and prototypes, can for example help bridging knowledge gaps between the different interests involved and offer guidance and support in their design work. The aim was to identify the possible problems that might occur connected to the different objects used in a design team. In order to study this, an ethnographical inspired study was carried out. Overall results were that the design team needed to extend their use of objects, in order to be fully supported by them in their work. Further, the existing objects needed to be changed or used differently. A “communication resource hub” was suggested, where all the new and old objects could be gathered. In this “resource hub” there should be room for different models that could be applied as a support for deciding on the right objects for the right purpose.