Inter-functional coordination in product realization: A framework for future research

New Product Development (NPD) is among the most important processes for modern firms to succeed in fast-paced and competitive markets. This paper reviews and integrates extant literature in the domains of NPD and Organization Behavior (OB) to develop a framework for future inter-functional coordination research. The framework, including some propositions, extends the traditional design/manufacturing interface into a product realization chain involving three interdependent functions - product design, process design and manufacturing and explores the dynamics of inter-functional coordination. Many factors are taken into consideration while searching for research opportunities associated with various coordination issues in the complex development and realization process.