Liepe, Z. & Sakalas, A. (2008). The Three-Loop Learning Model Appliance in New Product Development. Engineering Economics, 3(58), 73-80.

Format: Peer-reviewed article

Type: Research — Non-experimental

Experience level of reader: Fundamental

Annotation: The goal of this article was to highlight the relationship between organizational learning and new product development. Organizational learning is defined as "the capability, which enables an organization to acquire and process new information on a continuous basis to elevate knowledge and improve decision-making." The authors describe three types of learning styles; single, double and triple (Duetero) loop, with an emphasis on Duetero learning because it is believed to be the preferred style to improve NPD.

Setting(s) to which the reported activities/findings are relevant: Large business, Small business (less than 500 employees)

Knowledge user(s) to whom the piece of literature may be relevant: Manufacturers

Knowledge user level addressed by the literature: Organization

This article uses the Commercial Devices and Services version of the NtK Model

Method: Level 1 — Single and Double-loop learning or as we have termed, Non-Duetero, is characterized as passive, routine based systems learning that supports current behavior, limits feedback, and reinforces a short-term orientation. Level 2 — Duetero learning is characterized as active, holistic learning, where continuous feedback is sought, and the process reinforces a long-term orientation.
Authors secondary research.
Occurrence of finding within the model: Step 9.3

Barrier: Superstitious learning occurs when positive results are interpreted as learning outcomes in spite of little or no association. Success learning involves expectations or assumptions that what worked best in the past will work for the future. Competency traps occur when the organization refuses to adopt superior technology despite its availability. These negative impacts are avoidable if organizations implement learning within a transparent framework where employees are emotionally intelligent enough to recognize, avoid and manage such pitfalls (Scott-Ladd, Chan [2004])
Occurrence of finding within the model: Step 9.3

Method: Duetero learning is the most advanced style of learning and seeks to gain insight into the "learning process" itself, all while addressing the problems or opportunities at hand. This learning style also embraces an atmosphere where failures are fully tolerated, if not encouraged. (Allee [1997], Argyris & Schon [1996], Bateson [1973] & McKee [1992])
Occurrence of finding within the model: Step 9.3

Tip: There are many tools and techniques which can be applied in new product development process. These include Quality function deployment (QFD), Computer-aided Tools, Customer involvement, Design Coding, Design of Manufacture, Multi-functional Teams, Involving Key Suppliers, Project Management, Four field mapping (Maylor and Gosling, 1998; Maylor, 1997). (Maylor & Gosling [1998], Maylor [1997])
Occurrence of finding within the model: Stage 4, Stage 5, Stage 6, Stage 7