An Exploration of Leadership in Virtual Communities of Practice

Abstract

This qualitative phenomenological research study represents the personal and professional lived experiences of midlevel leaders’ effective management of virtual committees of practice (VCoP) in medical device companies in the Atlanta metro area. In-depth interviews were conducted with 15 leaders of VCoP from different medical device functional specialties. The study used a combination of the modified van Manen (1990) and van Kaam methods (Moustakas, 1994) to facilitate the analysis of the data gathered through in-depth interviews. This method served as the template for data collection and analysis. The research study revealed common themes after an analysis of data. Six emergent themes were identified: (a) empowerment, (b) communication, (c) trust, (d) encouragement/inspiration, (e) integrity, and (f) connecting with individuals. The research findings revealed a leadership model that relies on the development of genuine leaders/follower relationships to lead a VCoP effectively.