Development of a design performance measurement matrix for improving collaborative design during a design process

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how to measure collaborative design performance and, in turn, improve the final design output during a design process, with a clear objective to develop a design performance measurement (DPM) matrix to measure design project team members' design collaboration performances.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology adopted in this research uses critical literature reviews, in‐depth focus group interviews and a questionnaire survey.

Findings

The main finding of this study is a DPM matrix that addresses five DPM indicators: efficiency, effectiveness, collaboration, management skill, and innovation, and 25 detailed DPM criteria. It was found that decision‐making efficiency is the most important DPM criterion for collaborative design efficiency; plus delivering to the brief for effectiveness; clear team goal/objectives for collaboration; decision‐making ability for management skill; and competitive advantage for innovation.

Research limitations/implications

As the present study was focused on exploring DPM during a design process, some key DPM criteria which are not measurable during a design development process were not included in this study. The proposed multi‐feedback approach for DPM matrix implementation needs to be validated in future research.

Practical implications

The DPM matrix can be applied to support a design manager in measuring and improving collaborative design performance during a design process, by reviewing and modifying collaborative design development, identifying the design team strengths and weaknesses, improving team communication, and suggesting suitable responsive actions.

Originality/value

The major contribution of this study is the investigation and development of a DPM matrix to measure collaborative design performance during a design process.

Citation

Yin, Y., Qin, S. and Holland, R. (2011), "Development of a design performance measurement matrix for improving collaborative design during a design process", International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, Vol. 60 No. 2, pp. 152-184. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410401111101485