Boundary Object Theory
Framework explaining how shared artifacts enable coordination across diverse communities of practice.
Boundary Object Theory explains how certain artifacts, documents, or concepts can serve as coordination mechanisms across different communities with varying perspectives and expertise. These boundary objects are plastic enough to adapt to local needs yet robust enough to maintain identity across domains, enabling collaboration between groups that might otherwise struggle to coordinate. The theory is particularly valuable for understanding how interdisciplinary teams, cross-functional projects, and multi-stakeholder initiatives achieve alignment despite different knowledge bases and working practices.