Boundary Object
A "Boundary Object" is a concept used in sociology and organizational studies to describe items or ideas that facilitate communication and collaboration between different groups. These objects can take various forms, such as documents, diagrams, or tools, and are adaptable enough to be understood by diverse stakeholders while maintaining a common reference point.
Boundary objects help bridge gaps between different perspectives, allowing for shared understanding and cooperation. For example, a project plan can serve as a boundary object in a team, enabling members from different departments, like marketing and engineering, to align their goals and work together effectively.