Abstract illustration of interconnected gears representing teamwork amidst complexity.

Decoding Workplace Chaos: How 'Messy Objects' Can Strengthen Teamwork

Elliot Brynn in Mind & Education August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Navigating complex projects? Learn how understanding boundary objects can enhance collaboration and problem-solving in today's dynamic work environments."

The modern workplace is a landscape of constant collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving. Teams are assembled to tackle increasingly complex projects, often facing challenges that require diverse skill sets and perspectives. But what happens when these projects involve 'messy objects' – elements that are inherently complex, poorly defined, and difficult to grasp? Understanding how teams interact with these objects is key to unlocking better collaboration and achieving project success.

Researchers have long explored the role of objects in shaping professional practice. Whether as simple as a shared document or as intricate as a project timeline, objects mediate how individuals and teams interact, share knowledge, and make decisions. Traditionally, these objects might be seen as tools for streamlining processes. However, the concept of 'boundary objects' offers a more nuanced understanding of how these elements can bridge different viewpoints and strengthen analytical approaches, especially within complex project settings.

This article delves into the concept of 'boundary objects' and how they can be leveraged to improve teamwork, particularly when dealing with 'messy objects' that lack clear definition or straightforward solutions. By understanding the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of these concepts, teams can navigate complexity, foster better communication, and achieve more successful outcomes.

The Power of 'Boundary Objects' in Bridging Divides

Abstract illustration of interconnected gears representing teamwork amidst complexity.

Introduced by Susan Leigh Star and James R. Griesemer, the concept of boundary objects explains how teams can work together without full consensus. These objects, which can be anything from physical documents to abstract ideas, serve as common reference points for individuals with different perspectives and goals. Their 'interpretive flexibility' allows each team member to engage with the object in a way that makes sense for their role while still contributing to the overall project objective. Boundary objects can facilitate coordination, knowledge sharing, and conflict resolution.

Unlike a single, unified solution, boundary objects acknowledge the inherent messiness of complex projects. Instead of trying to force everyone onto the same page, they allow for diverse interpretations and approaches while maintaining a shared sense of purpose. Think of a project timeline. While the sales team might see it as a tool for quick project completion, the engineering team might focus on ensuring thorough risk assessment, and project managers focus on resources allocation. All use the same object with common ground.

Benefits of using boundary objects include:

Improved communication
Enhanced collaboration
Better problem-solving
Increased innovation

While boundary objects offer significant advantages, it's important to recognize their limitations. Over-reliance on interpretative flexibility can lead to ambiguity and a lack of clear direction. Additionally, if not managed effectively, power imbalances can emerge, with certain perspectives dominating others. Careful facilitation and open communication are essential for maximizing the benefits of boundary objects while mitigating potential downsides.

Embracing Complexity for Better Outcomes

Navigating the complexities of modern work requires more than just streamlined processes and rigid structures. By embracing the concepts of 'messy objects' and 'boundary objects', teams can foster greater collaboration, leverage diverse perspectives, and ultimately achieve more successful project outcomes. Recognizing the inherent complexities and employing strategies that promote shared understanding and flexible interpretation can unlock new levels of innovation and problem-solving within any organization.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1080/0158037x.2018.1456416, Alternate LINK

Title: Researching ‘Messy Objects’: How Can Boundary Objects Strengthen The Analytical Pursuit Of An Actor-Network Theory Study?

Subject: Education

Journal: Studies in Continuing Education

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Authors: Jennifer Scoles

Published: 2018-04-01

Everything You Need To Know

What are 'messy objects' in the context of workplace collaboration, and why is it important to address them?

In project management, 'messy objects' refer to project components that are complex, not well-defined, or difficult to understand. These elements introduce uncertainty and can complicate teamwork. Recognizing and addressing 'messy objects' is important because they can significantly impact project timelines, resource allocation, and team morale. Successfully navigating 'messy objects' often requires utilizing 'boundary objects' to create shared understanding and facilitate collaboration.

What are 'boundary objects', and can you provide an example of how they function within a project team?

'Boundary objects' are tools, concepts, or documents that different team members can interpret and use in ways that are relevant to their specific roles and perspectives, yet still contribute to a common goal. Susan Leigh Star and James R. Griesemer introduced the concept of the 'boundary object'. A project timeline serves as a good example; the sales team might use it for tracking deadlines, while the engineering team focuses on risk assessment, and project managers concentrate on resource allocation. This interpretive flexibility of 'boundary objects' facilitates collaboration and knowledge sharing, even when team members do not have complete consensus.

What are the primary benefits of using 'boundary objects' to manage teamwork, and what are some potential drawbacks?

Using 'boundary objects' offers numerous benefits, including improved communication, enhanced collaboration, and better problem-solving. By providing a shared reference point with interpretive flexibility, 'boundary objects' help team members from different backgrounds understand each other's perspectives and work together more effectively. This can lead to increased innovation and more successful project outcomes. If the 'boundary object' is not managed effectively, it can lead to ambiguity or allow power imbalances where some perspectives dominate others. Facilitation and open communication are essential.

What are the limitations of using 'boundary objects', and how can these challenges be mitigated?

While 'boundary objects' are helpful in bridging diverse viewpoints, they have limitations. Over-reliance on interpretive flexibility can result in ambiguity and a lack of clear direction. It's important to manage 'boundary objects' effectively to prevent these potential downsides. Power imbalances can emerge if not managed properly, with certain perspectives dominating. For instance, if the project manager's interpretation of a 'boundary object' always prevails, the perspectives of engineers or sales representatives might be overlooked, leading to suboptimal decisions and reduced team morale.

What are some strategies for effectively utilizing 'boundary objects' in complex projects to improve collaboration and achieve successful outcomes?

To effectively utilize 'boundary objects' in complex projects, prioritize open communication and active facilitation. Encourage team members to share their interpretations and perspectives on the 'boundary object'. Implement mechanisms for conflict resolution to address disagreements arising from differing interpretations. Regularly review and update 'boundary objects' to ensure they remain relevant and effective throughout the project lifecycle. Be aware of potential power imbalances and take steps to ensure all voices are heard. By embracing complexity and fostering shared understanding, teams can leverage 'boundary objects' to achieve greater collaboration and innovation.