Boundary spanners are responsible for what primary function?

Boundary spanners play a crucial role in organizations by serving as a link between the organization and its external environment. Their primary function is to interact with external entities, such as customers, suppliers, competitors, and other stakeholders. This interaction helps the organization gather important information, identify opportunities, and respond to external challenges effectively.

By engaging with the outside world, boundary spanners facilitate the flow of valuable insights back into the organization, promoting innovation and strategic alignment with market trends and external demands. Their role is essential for organizations looking to remain competitive and responsive in a dynamic business environment, as they help bridge the gap between internal operations and the external landscape.

The other functions listed, while important, do not capture the core responsibility of boundary spanners, which is fundamentally about establishing and maintaining relationships outside the organization.