Heedful interrelating as a cultural coordination mechanism for flexible knowledge integration

In this paper we discuss the results of a study into the emergence of a regular pattern of knowledge integration in two research groups. The study shows how a regular pattern of knowledge integration emerges through a practice of heedful interrelating in the design, execution and ending of projects. We found that heedful interrelating was responsible for an effective, efficient and flexible pattern of knowledge integration. Heedful interrelating specifies local circumstances and thereby provides additional insights to the general mechanisms of rules, directives and routines which cannot explain effective, efficient and flexible patterns of knowledge integration on their own. The emergence of heedful interrelating appeared to be an ongoing accomplishment. The mixed presence of heedful and heedless interrelating appeared to be related to the effectiveness and efficiency of the performance of the group.