Creativity and efficiency in virtual product development teams

Globalization and use of the best human resources independently of the physical location is a new development potential. Development of information technology will facilitate work in virtual development teams. The existing experience in teamwork bases on the experience of teams that are physically together. Creativity of individuals and the team is of key importance for the effectiveness and success of a new product development. An individual's activity is reflected in the creativity of the team. This article is about the influence of the transition from the real to the virtual team on creativity. Communication is of extreme importance for virtual teams as it is an important factor for the team development and encouraging the creativity of individuals as well as of the entire team. The paper is based on the experience gained in participation in a virtual team during an international seminar E-GPR (European Global Product Realization). The analyses of teams have shown that a mixed international team contributes to more innovative ideas. Suitable leading of a virtual team should stimulate the proper level of communication and team development what results in higher effectiveness. Personal experience is the best way to developed skills to work successfully in virtual product development teams.