Shield: Product Development in a Distributed Team

Howard’s Solution

Back in Los Angeles, Howard met with Sun Ho to discuss his analysis of the problems and to present some solutions. Howard outlined them:

1. 
   Appoint a new liaison
   
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     Howard appointed Sun Ho to fill Randan’s former position of liaison manager. This would be Sun Ho’s main job function. He would be responsible for all aspects of the partnership, and would be required to provide weekly updates to Howard on the progress of the relationship.
     
2. 
   Weekly conference calls
   
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     The two teams of developers would be required to meet weekly via teleconferencing. Sun Ho was responsible for organizing the agenda and ensuring that team members of the specific module being discussed participated.
     
3. 
   Increased visits
   
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     Howard encouraged developers from both sides to visit their counterparts more frequently. He sweetened the deal by offering first-class air fare and hotel accommodation, as well as one vacation day for each day spent working at the sister site.