Reliability of communication flow in R&D organizations

Much attention has been given to the communication process in R&D organizations since the concept of a technological gatekeeper was proposed. By viewing the R&D organization as an information processing and generating system, the role communication network structure plays in determining R&D performance can be isolated and studied. Findings from empirical research are reviewed, providing a framework in which to examine and assess the communication patterns present in an R&D organization. A methodology is presented to evaluate the effectiveness of an organizational communication network with particular reference to project management. The proposed method permits the assessment of contemplated management actions intended to improve organizational communication.