Purpose – The aim of this paper is to improve the understanding of organizationallevel factors affecting the degree of acceptance and use of formal new product development (NPD) processes, which in turn may lead to enhanced NPD performance.

Research design – For data collection, an internet based survey was made available to employees working for nine large manufacturers of commercial vehicles worldwide. The total sample analyzed in this study contained N=254 respondents corresponding to a response rate of 26%. The data was analyzed based on a hypothesized research model using structural equation modelling technique (SEM).

Findings – We present and validate a research model of formal new product development process acceptance. The study shows that acceptance of formal NPD processes is determined by several factors, such as ease of use, transparency of discourse, continuous improvement, involvement of NPD actors, as well as their ability to bridge differences in thinking. Furthermore, it is shown that acceptance of formal NPD process affects NPD performance positively.

Research limitations – The sample is taken from the commercial vehicle industry. Further samples from other industries need to be collected in order to show general validity of the insights gained in this study. Further research should also concentrate on medial and cultural dimensions of the model proposed.

Managerial implications – This study provides detailed recommendations to NPD managers on how to facilitate organizationallevel acceptance of formal NPD processes and thereby enhancing NPD performance. Managerial implications include, for example, design recommendations for formal NPD processes, the use of sophisticated media for formal NPD process management, as well as the promotion of a culture of cross-functional exchange.

Originality – Quantitative studies on potential determinants of formal NPD process acceptance are scarce. This study approaches the issue from a socio-cognitive perspective, underscoring the importance of organic bottom-up approaches to formal NPD process management.