Session 53: Cracking the collaboration code: lessons from a case study exploring the dynamics of cross-functional collaboration between business and IT students

Abstract

Session overview:

This session, When Business Speaks and IT Codes: Cracking the Collaboration Code, explores the dynamics of cross-functional collaboration between business and IT students in a live consultancy project. In today’s digital economy, successful business-IT integration is crucial for driving innovation and operational efficiency. However, bridging the gap between these disciplines presents challenges due to differing communication styles, problem-solving approaches, and technical expertise.

Through a real-world case study, we will examine how business students and IT students collaborated to develop an operational IT system for a Malaysian logistics and warehousing company. The session will unpack the challenges faced - such as misalignment in expectations, technical versus strategic perspectives, and coordination hurdles - while showcasing structured interventions that improved team synergy.

Using an Organisational Behaviour (OB) framework, we will analyse collaboration at both the individual level (personality traits, working styles, and domain mindsets) and the team level (coordination mechanisms, conflict resolution, and Agile methodologies). Key strategies like structured role definitions, iterative feedback loops, requirement documentation, and sprint reviews will be highlighted.

This session is relevant to educators, researchers, and industry professionals interested in designing effective interdisciplinary projects, enhancing teamwork through OB principles, and preparing students for the realities of digital-era collaboration. Attendees will gain practical strategies to foster adaptability, improve communication in diverse teams, and create a student-centric, innovation-driven learning environment.

Key learning points from this session:

Attendees will gain insights into fostering effective cross-functional collaboration between business and IT student teams. Key takeaways include strategies for bridging communication gaps, managing interdisciplinary teamwork using Organisational Behaviour principles, and integrating Agile methodologies. Educators, researchers, and industry professionals will learn practical approaches to enhance student engagement and real-world project outcomes.

Cracking the collaboration code: lessons from a case study exploring the dynamics of cross-functional collaboration between business and IT students PowerPoint. Only LJMU staff and students have access to this resource.